What is considered bradycardia in an infant?

What is considered bradycardia in an infant?

For the purpose of this topic review, we define bradycardia as a heart rate measured in the awake state that is below the normal range for age (ie, <100 beats per minute [bpm] for infants, <80 bpm for toddlers and young children, <70 for school age children, and <60 for adolescents).

Is bradycardia normal for newborn?

The incidence of transient episodes of bradycardia was inversely related to heart rate. Results for apneic and nonapneic premature infants were similar. Conclusions: Transient episodes of bradycardia are considered normal reflex responses and are not related to risk for sudden infant death syndrome.

What causes newborn bradycardia?

Most infants have bradycardia for the same reasons they have apnea. And often bradycardia results from the baby having apnea. But other medical problems can sometimes be the cause; therefore, babies who have these episodes need to be evaluated.

What is the most common cause of bradycardia in infants?

Hypoxemia – Hypoxemia an abnormally low level of oxygen in the blood, is the most common cause of sinus bradycardia. Hypoxemia causes depression of the sinus node or a conduction block. Hypoxemia may be caused by congenital heart defects, lung disease or respiratory failure.

Is bradycardia normal in children?

This is termed sinus bradycardia, but during sleep it is a completely normal and expected finding. In many instances a child may be referred for evaluation by a pediatric cardiologist for slow heart rate to determine whether this is abnormal. Fortunately truly pathologic sinus bradycardia in children is fairly rare.

What can cause bradycardia in infants?

The primary cause of neonatal bradycardia is hypoxia. Other causes of bradycardia in this age group include hypothermia, hypovolemia, and pneumothorax, head injury, and medications. The treatment of neonatal bradycardia starts by evaluating the airway.

When should I worry about bradycardia?

See your health care provider if you are concerned about a slow heart rate. If you faint, have difficulty breathing or have chest pain lasting more than a few minutes, call 911 or emergency medical services.

Can bradycardia reverse itself?

For example, treating sleep apnea or adjusting medications are some things that might resolve transient bradycardia. Persistent bradycardia can also be reversed if it is caused by: Drug therapy. Hypothyroidism.