How concerned should I be?

[Giulia8]

My daughter (23) was born with a ventricular septal defect and has recently been diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease which has caused severe mitral stenosis and aortic regurgitation. She has recently been put onto profilactic antibiotics and is awaiting further treatment under the care of Papworth Hospital.

We have noticed that her heart rate has been slowing significantly when she is sleeping and are not sure at what point to be seeking additional medical support or how to best ensure her safety. Her usual heart rate when resting is around 50 but last night for example, it dropped to less that 40bpm and remained there for over 10 minutes.

Is this something we should be worried about or is this a normal part of her condition? At what point should be we seeking additional support from medical professionals and how can we make sure she is safe?

Thanks in advance!

[PadThaiNoodles]

I suffered from mitral and aortic valve regurgitation with no heart rate issues.

But I don't have a septal defect, and my valve disease was degenerative rather than rheumatoid.

I think it's worth a call to your daughter's healthcare team just to see what they think.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

When I was your daughter's age my resting heart rate was about 43bpm and I imagine it dropped further in my sleep. Miguel Indurain, a multiple Tour de France winner, had a resting rate of 27bpm. So therefore I would not be unduly worried but suggest your ring her team at Papworth. Although many heart patients, like myself, are discharged to the care of their GP I have found found many to be wanting with regard to heart disease (particularly as things become more complex). Make that call tomorrow rather than overthinking and stay away from Dr Google!