Re: Bradycardia

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on December 09, 1998 at 07:10:34:

In Reply to: Bradycardia posted by David Dugan on December 08, 1998 at 21:42:24:






I have recently been diagonised with hiatal hernia and an inflamed esophagitis.  In the process of these the doctors appointments, stress test and elecrocardiagrams my pulse rate has consistently been below 60 beats per minute and only occasionaly going over 60.  The blood pressure is alright.  I had a hear spasm and went to the ICU; but they think it was from the hernia and gastroesophael reflux.  I'm taking Prilosec and Norvasc; but the Norvasc maybe stopped soon.  I'm concerned about the low pulse rate.  What should be done about it?
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Dear David,
Interestingly yours is the second question today about the relation between stomach problems and heart problems.  I will repeat here what I said there that there may actually be a good explanation for your symptoms.  People with stomach problems often have what is called "reflux" where acid from the stomach "backs-up" into the esophagus.  This leads to a heartburn sensation.  The esophagus runs right next to the heart and this irritation may be increasing your palpatitions.  I would see your doctor about starting medication for the stomach and you may find a "side effect" is a decrease in your palpitations.
Bradycardia in itself is not a problem as long as you are not having symptoms from it.  A pulse rate of 60 is within normal limits.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.  Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.  The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.