Is a Slow Heart Rate as Big a Risk to Your Health as a Fast One?

A slow heart rate, known as bradycardia, can lead to fainting and other complications. But without symptoms, it may not need treatment.

Published: March 4, 2017

You know that a very fast heart rate (tachycardia) can cause numerous symptoms, including fainting. In some cases, it leads to cardiac arrest. But what if your heart rate is slower than normal, a condition called bradycardia? Its more common among older adults, and it carries its own set of symptoms of possible complications. For many people, a slow heart rate poses no risk.