Bradycardia - Slow Heartbeat

How is the condition diagnosed?

The speed of the heartbeat can usually be measured by checking the pulse or listening to the heartbeat with a stethoscope.

The doctor will also need to figure out the cause of a slow heartbeat. Diagnosis of the cause starts with a medical history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed in some cases. In other cases, further tests may be needed.

For example, an electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG, can help diagnose irregular heartbeats and heart attacks. A series of blood tests known as thyroid function tests can be used to diagnose low thyroid levels. A drug test of the urine or blood can be used to diagnose heroin use. A special X-ray test called a cranial CT scan may be done to look for head injuries or brain damage.