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'''Bradyarrhythmias''' are arrhythmias characterised by bradycardia, a heart rate < 60/min. The most common examples are [[sinus bradycardia]] and [[sick sinus syndrome]]. | <section begin="A&IC" />'''Bradyarrhythmias''' are arrhythmias characterised by bradycardia, a ventricular heart rate < 60/min. The most common examples are [[sinus bradycardia]] and [[sick sinus syndrome]]. Bradyarrhythmias can be life-threatening if the heart rate is too low to sustain cardiac output. They can also degenerate into [[asystole]], causing [[cardiac arrest]]. Short-lived paroxysmal bradyarrhythmias can cause [[syncope]]. | ||
== Types == | |||
* [[Sinus bradycardia]] | |||
* [[Sick sinus syndrome|Sick sinus syndrome/tachycardia-bradycardia syndrome]] | |||
* 2nd degree [[Atrioventricular block|AV block]] Mobitz type II | |||
* 3rd degree [[AV block]] | |||
== Etiology == | |||
* Age-related degeneration of the sinus node and AV node | |||
* [[Acute myocardial infarction]] | |||
* Electrolyte disorders | |||
* [[Myocarditis]] | |||
* Drug intoxication ([[tricyclic antidepressants]], [[digoxin]], [[beta blockers]], [[calcium channel blockers]]) | |||
== Management == | |||
If bradyarrhythmias are severe enough to cause haemodynamic instability, [[atropine]] (0,5 mg) can be given to increase the heart rate. Atropine can be repeated up to 3 mg. As a second choice, [[isoprenaline]] or [[adrenaline]] can be given. Transcutaneous pacing may also be used, where pads applied externally to the chest pace the heart like a pacemaker.<section end="A&IC" /> | |||
[[Category:Cardiology]] | [[Category:Cardiology]] | ||
[[Category:Internal Medicine (POTE course)]] | [[Category:Internal Medicine (POTE course)]] |