Expert: David Richardson - 5/18/2006

Question
Dear Mr Richardson,

I am 36 yrs old female(167cm height, 47kg weight, usually normal blood pressure) with constant low pulse rate, not taking any kind of medicine.

I have this problem with bradycardia all my life.
When I was a child I had a regular cardiologist's check (every 6 months). The doctor sugested that I had a normal life.

As a child I was not aware of the kind of problem I had so when I was 18 I stopped seeing cardiologist.

Then after 16 yrs (2 yrs ago) I noticed that my pulse rate is extremely low (36-40). I had no problems and was confused about this. After several months I went to a doctor and was really shocked!!! They told me I have to implant a pacemaker. I have refused it although they told me I could have sever problems.

When I am active my pulse rate gets up to 110, but any other time it is 35-40. Is it possible that my body has adapted to this pulse rate and that I do not need a pacemaker?

And what about getting pregnant? Is it true that there is no way I give a birth to a child without a pacemaker at this condition?

Please, give me your opinion. I am very sensitive person and the whole situation is getting me into deep depression. I am terrified of any kind of surgery (I know that this is just a routin procedure, but anyway). I think I would not survive that shock. I am emotionally not ready to do it and to change my normal life even if that means I will not have children.

Thank you in advance
Sincerely yours
                  Biljana

Answer
Dear Biljana,

If your EKG shows only sinus bradycardia and No atrioventricular block, then you should go thru life and pregnancy with no trouble.  I certainly don't think you need a pacemaker if your EKG just says sinus bradycardia.  If you wish, send me your EKG as attachment to email to dwr1@wcrichmond.org or fax to 804 200 1098 or in regular mail to 1500 Westbrook Court, Apt. 1105, Richmond VA 23227-3366.

Please write back if this note doesn't satisfatorily answer your questions.

David Richardson