Bradycardia is when your heart beats very slowly. A healthy heart rate for most people is between 60 and 100 bpm when resting. Sometimes a low heart rate can be normal, such as in extremely fit athletes, but it could be a sign that something isn’t right.
What is a pulse and why is it important?
The pulse is the rate at which your heart beats. It reflects how fast blood travels throughout your body.
Heart rate is a good indicator of how healthy you are. It’s good to know if your heart rate is normal or not.
How to check your pulse?
In order to check your pulse, put your fingers on your neck and count how many times you feel the pulse beat over 10 seconds, then multiply by 6 to get BPM.
It’s recommended to count it multiple times to get a clear idea of it. Write down the number track it regularly and see if there is variation over time.
The best way to check your pulse is with a doctor. You can do it yourself, but a doctor can tell if there is an issue or not.
If you have a heart rate monitor or smart watch, it’ll take a more accurate and consistent measurement for you than you can just by counting.
Why you should be concerned if your heart rate is low?
If you have a low heart rate, your body’s organs may not be getting enough oxygen. If this goes on for a long time it could even lead to organ damage or failure. A decrease in heart rate can also lead to confusion and headaches.
When to see a doctor?
If you’re not healthy, or if you have a history of heart problems, it’s best to get medical advice as soon as your heart rate drops. It can cause discomfort and make any other health problems worse.
A healthy heart is important. If you feel something is wrong with your heart, don’t ignore it and let it get worse.
Tips for increasing your heart rate
- Physical activity – Exercising will raise your heart rate. You should get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. The best exercises are ones that make you strong while also making your heart beat faster.
- Meditation – Meditating is a good way to relax. It can also help to reduce your stress, which can improve your heart rate.
- Diet – Eating healthy food can make you feel better. You should eat lots of vegetables and drink plenty of water.
Your pulse is a quick way to see how healthy or unhealthy you are. If you have a low heart rate, it can be a warning of serious health risks and should never ignore this. If you feel like something is wrong and your pulse is below 50, get medical advice right away.
