Sinus bradycardia can be relieved by medication, lifestyle modifications, and, if necessary, surgery. Common causes include abnormalities in the cardiac conduction system, medication side effects, or hypothyroidism. For patients with mild symptoms, improvement in lifestyle and dietary adjustments can provide relief; those with severe symptoms should seek medical attention promptly to assess the need for medication or surgery.
1. Drug Treatment: Medications for sinus bradycardia include atropine, isoproterenol, and theophylline. Atropine blocks vagal nerve activity, increasing heart rate; isoproterenol directly stimulates cardiac β-receptors, increasing heart rate and myocardial contractility; theophylline improves cardiac conduction by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). These medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor to avoid side effects.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments: Moderate exercise such as walking, yoga, and swimming can enhance heart function and improve heart rate. Avoid overexertion and emotional fluctuations, and maintain a regular sleep schedule. Increase your intake of foods rich in potassium and magnesium, such as bananas, spinach, and nuts, to help maintain the balance of cardiac electrical activity. Reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol to avoid aggravating heart rate abnormalities.
3. Surgical Treatment: For patients with severe sinus bradycardia who do not respond to medication, pacemaker implantation may be considered. A pacemaker sends electrical signals to the heart via electrodes to regulate heart rate and ensure the heart pumps blood normally. The surgery carries a low risk, but regular follow-up is necessary to monitor pacemaker function.
Treatment for sinus bradycardia requires a personalized approach based on the cause and severity. Mild symptoms can be improved through lifestyle adjustments, while severe cases require timely medical attention and may necessitate medication or surgery to maintain heart health and quality of life.