Glossary of Terms

Bradycardia
A type of arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) where the resting heart rate is slower than normal, or below 60 beats per minute. This is caused by the disruption of electrical signals that normally keep the heart beating at a steady pace.

A normal heart rate is between 60-100 beats per minute. The resting heart rate during sleep, and that of some athletes, sometimes falls below 60 beats per minute, but is not often considered abnormal.

During bradycardia, the heart rate is so slow that not enough blood is pumped throughout the body. This can result in fainting, dizziness, shortness of breath, or fatigue.

Related terms: Tachycardia, Arrhythmia