referral to cardiologist

[Mynameistaken]

hi, I saw my GP recently as my Apple Watch kept giving me multiple notifications every day that my heart rate was slow. Slowest was 39, but usually around 44 - 46. I had a 24 hr monitor and now being referred to cardiology as slow heartbeat shown on monitor. I am wondering what priority this referral is likely to have. Thankyou

[Ennasti]

It’s impossible to answer. Many on this forum also suffer from bradycardia and live with it. It’s rarely immediately life threatening but obviously it’s also not ideal. If you have no symptoms, they’re less likely to be urgently concerned. You may require a pacemaker but I’d think they’ll likely run some tests first to as if there is a reason for your brady.

[Scotsman53]

If you're having no symptoms, probably wouldn't even have known your HR is low if not for the watch, you'll be very low priority I'm afraid.

[Sharpglo]

I would like to offer you some advice - ask or obtain an echocardiogram the only machine which can pretty well ‘cover your back’ for heart problems which can not be diagnosed any other way. Take it from someone who knows.

[dg2024]

My pulse is 30 overnight. 45 during day. I've had it all my life. A life long healthy living sportsman. No issue. I'm recovering from myocarditis and had atrial fibrillation 10 years ago. Don't worry. The heart adapts. The time to be concerned is when you're dizzy or faint. But do get checked.

[Jedi14]

Could I ask if your on a Beta blocker?

[Mynameistaken in reply to Jedi14]

No meds. Age 55. Not super fit. Just average middle aged woman. Some dizziness. And always exhausted. But aren’t we all.

[Jedi14 in reply to Mynameistaken]

In that case try some lifestyle changes as well. I'm sure you are eating healthy and enjoying life. Some people have a low HR anyway, perhaps it's nothing to worry about?

But the good thing is, that you are now on their radar and you will get the best advice from the cardiologist!

[Channeal]

I had the identical problem towards the end of last year. I went to my doctor and was referred to a cardiologist who made them do an ecg before they would accept the referral. I then waited 6 or 7 months for an appointment and was told my problems had worsened since the ecg was done and I now needed a pacemaker. The pacemaker was duly inserted two weeks later.

It was all a big shock as when I went to see the cardiologist I thought he would just give me some tablets or something. All is well now though.

I hope everything goes well for you.