What does bradycardia refer to?

Bradycardia specifically refers to a decreased heart rate, which is recognized when the heart beats fewer than 60 times per minute in adults. This condition can be a normal physiological response in well-conditioned athletes, but it might also indicate underlying health issues in other individuals, such as heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or the effects of certain medications. Understanding bradycardia is important in veterinary medicine as it helps veterinary assistants recognize potential health concerns in animals, allowing for timely veterinary intervention and diagnosis.