low pulse rate

[Graham567]

I have always kept myself fit and been a top class athlete.  I lost my wife 4 years ago, and I believe due to stress, I had a heart attack 2 years ago, and I am on medication.  
Typical BP readings are 96/54, but my resting pulse rate is on average 36 should I be concerned?
My age is 67 and I am still very fit.

Graham

[heartfluttersflyawayplz]

my heart rate has been running around 47-52 am 49 my dr told me to come off one bp-pill a day see if it goes back up, but i dont have any problems with mine that low either

[nervouslady]

I'm so sorry for the loss of your wife and your health issues that have been brought on by stress.  I experienced similar issues after losing someone close 5 years ago.  Exercise is a great way to cope with and reduce stress - did your docs say it's okay to continue to exercise after your heart attack?

My mom is 68 and has about the same heart rate (though no history of heart issues).  She is in very good shape too and I think that can lower your heart rate.  She sets off the heart monitors because her heart rate is so low, but no one has been concerned about it thus far.  She has had thyroid issues and I think she was on too low of a dose of synthroid, so was not getting enough of that to keep her awake and running.  I don't know if that is something you should have checked or what.

Your BP looks good.  Hang in there, try to do what you can to lower your stress levels, I know it's hard though.  I am taking a vacation this week to 'unwind' but I am terrified of flying, so I'm keyed up about something that's supposed to be relaxing...dumb...

[Jerry_NJ]

Yes, I think 36 is too low, and you should have it checked at least by your primary care if you don't already have a cardiologist.  I got my first cardiologist (that's who I see the most) at about age 60.

You low pluse and BP sound like a prescription for dizziness, but you didn't mention any such problems, that suggests your body is accustom with these numbers and suggest a very strong cardiovascular system.  Still, get it checked and be careful with stairs if your pulse doesn't go up quickly when you start walking around.