Sinus bradycardia (Pediatrics - PEDS)

Very low urgency
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It is a benign cardiac arrhythmia in which the child's heart beats with normal electrical conduction, regularly, but slower than would be normal for their age. The normal range varies according to age, therefore bradycardia is established in: newborn to 3 years: <100 beats per minute (bpm), from 3 to 9 years: <60 bpm, from 9 to 16 years: <50 bpm.

The most common causes are: slowing down during sleep, regular sports practice or taking medication.

In healthy children, it can be a finding during the medical examination, without manifesting symptoms. In other cases, the slowing of the heartbeat may be the only manifestation of a disease that causes decreased oxygen in the blood.

It is diagnosed after a physical examination and an electrocardiogram.

Treatment aims to correct the cause; If it is due to medication, it should be assessed to continue with it or change it to another.

Bibliographic references
  1. Frank Zimmerman. Bradycardia in children. UpToDate. Septiembre. 2016
  2. Munther K Homoud.. Sinus bradycardia. UpToDate. Junio 2016
  3. Spodick DH. Normal sinus heart rate: sinus tachycardia and sinus bradycardia redefined. Am Heart J 1992; 124:1119.
  4. Spodick DH. Operational definition of normal sinus heart rate. Am J Cardiol 1992; 69:1245.
  5. Fleming S. Normal ranges of heart rate and respiratory rate in children from birth to 18 years of age: a systematic review of observational studies. Lancet 2011; 377:1011.
  6. Kugler JD. Sinus node dysfunction. In: Pediatric Arrhythmias: Electrophysiology and Pacing, Gillette PC, Garson AG Jr (Eds), WB Saunders, Philadelphia 1990. p.250.
Author
Dr. Patricia Sánchez
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Slow heartbeat during sleep

Symptoms to watch out for

Paleness
Excessive sweating
Irritability or decreased responsiveness to stimuli
Palpitations

Self-care

Get regular physical activity at least 3 times a week that is appropriate for your age and physical condition.
Eat a balanced diet: increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, and white meats, and reduce consumption of fatty and fried foods.