I would like to know the significant symptoms of having a low pulse rate. My pulse ran about in the mid 60's when I was an athelete(of sorts), about low 70's when I was just average overweight, but now, my pulse runs in the mid to low 50's. What are the symptoms of having such a low pulse... is being tired one of them?

How low can a person's pulse go before they lose consciousness?

Choux, what medications are you taking? Certain meds can lower the pulse rate, but this is considered quite low. It can be this low during sleep cycles, but during waking cycles it should be in the 60s and above.

I do take high blood pressure medications like diovan, metprolol, verapamil... I'm concerned that this is running waaaay too low and accounts(in part) for me being very tired and lethargic. It seems to me it can run somewhat higher.

If I'm not anxious awaiting medical personnel here, my blood pressure will run like 120/60, but if a medical person is coming and I'm upset, my blood pressure will run as high as 160/80.

I want to make it through the election to Nov 5th!

Seriously, what do you think?

I think it's the blood pressure medication. Particularly the Metoprolol. This is a beta blocker and one of the more serious side effects is bradycardia (slow heart beat). It will account for you being tired and lethargic, as well as some very serious complications. You need to contact your doctor about this ASAP.

Excellent, thank you so much. Thank heavens we have a nurse on this board! :)

Choux, I am certain it is the metoprolol... Not only did I look it up in my drug reference, but I experienced the same thing. My heart rate went into the upper 40s before my doctor changed meds on me. It sounds as though you are sensitive to beta blockers.

Oh, and thanks for the compliment.

Both metoprolol and verapamil can cause bradycardia


Verelan PM (Verapamil) Drug Information: Uses, Side Effects, Drug Interactions and Warnings at RxList (http://www.rxlist.com/verelan-pm-drug.htm)

Lopressor (Metoprolol Tartrate) Drug Information: Uses, Side Effects, Drug Interactions and Warnings at RxList (http://www.rxlist.com/lopressor-drug.htm)

I would talk to your doc about these medications.


Do not suddenly stop the metoprolol [ beta blocker ] as this could result in REBOUND high blood pressure and or fast heart rate.

Thank you guys. I am having so much trouble with my heart lately. Will read all the links.

I spoke to my visiting nurse yesterday, and she is going to talk to the Dr. Today, my blood pressure is 180/90 or 80, and I'm very concerned, and I take all that heart medicine!

I have developed panic attacks lately, I think they drive up my blood pressure. I feel a lot of stress when medical people visit me, and also when I'm overcome by problems.

I just like to be alone with my cat!

Do naps help? I'm going to go take a nap and see.