Who Might Experience Bradycardia?

Age. Age is the most common risk factor for developing bradycardia. The condition is most common among men and women over age 65.

What conditions situations may cause bradycardia?

Sinus bradycardia may be seen in hypothermia, hypoglycemia, and sleep apnea. Less commonly, the sinus node may be affected as a result of diphtheria, rheumatic fever, or viral myocarditis.

Why do athletes have bradycardia?

Traditionally changes in neural input (vagal tone) were thought to lead to bradycardia in athletes. However, several studies have demonstrated that even after blocking these inputs (autonomic blockade), athletes continue to have lower heart rates than non-athletes.