Increases the workload of the heart, so long term, chronic can cause significant heart problems (damage to lining of arteries, resulting in atherosclerosis, increased risk of CHD and stoke) Lack of regular exercise, a high salt diet, obesity, chronic stress, family history, gender and race are risk factors.
Bradycardia is the medical term used for a low heart rate. Low pulse rates can be caused by metabolic diseases and damage to the heart structure. An imbalance in electrolytes and some medications can also cause your pulse to drop.
A slow heart rate can be normal and healthy. Or it could be a sign of a problem with the heart's electrical system. For some people, a slow heart rate does not cause any problems. It can be a sign of being very fit. Healthy young adults and athletes often have heart rates of less than 60 beats a minute.