A 75-year-old woman, Mai, was admitted to Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City experiencing severe fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, and a heart rate of 42-45 beats per minute (normal resting heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute). Dr. Hoang Thi Binh, from the Department of Cardiology, explained that a heart rate below 50 beats per minute at rest is considered bradycardia (slow heart rate). Mai had a history of hypertension, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and coronary artery disease for which she had received a stent. Her last hospital visit had been over a year prior, and she had been taking medication for these conditions based on her old prescription.

According to Dr. Binh, bradycardia can be caused by various factors, including sinoatrial node dysfunction (sick sinus syndrome), abnormal heart rhythm conduction (atrioventricular block), congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease, heart surgery, electrolyte imbalances, and hypothyroidism. Dr. Huynh Thanh Kieu, Head of Cardiology 1, emphasized, "Instead of scheduling regular check-ups for medication review and adjustment, Mai continued using her old prescription, leading to serious side effects and a significant drop in her heart rate." Untreated bradycardia can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and worsen heart failure. In severe cases, it can lead to fainting due to reduced blood flow to the brain, and even death.

Doctors adjusted Mai's medication to control her heart rate, prescribed anticoagulants to prevent blood clots, and provided heart support medication. Her heart rate increased to 70 beats per minute, and she was discharged after a week.

Dr. Binh instructs Mai to adhere to her follow-up appointments after discharge. Photo: Ha Vu

Dr. Kieu recommends regular check-ups for all heart patients. However, many individuals only visit the doctor once for diagnosis and a prescription, continuing to use the same medication long-term. This is dangerous because health conditions can change over time. Potential complications from using outdated prescriptions include heart rhythm disorders, heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke due to blood clots.

To maintain heart health, patients should abstain from alcohol and tobacco, avoid staying up late and sleep deprivation, and manage stress. A healthy diet rich in vegetables and fish, reduced intake of animal fats and high-cholesterol foods like eggs and whole milk, and regular exercise tailored to individual needs are also crucial.

Bradycardia may not always present noticeable symptoms. However, individuals should seek medical attention if they experience persistent slow heart rate, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. Annual health check-ups are recommended for all adults.

Thu Ha

*The patient's name has been changed.