DEAR DR. GOTT: I have a low pulse. What are the causes and the cure?
DEAR READER: The normal heart beats between 60 and 100 times per minute when at rest. Lower rates in young people and athletes can be an indication of being physically fit through a training regimen. Other causes of bradycardia (a low pulse) are attributed to coronary-artery disease, hypothyroidism, an electrolyte imbalance, the use of some medications, such as those taken for hypertension, or, rarely, endocarditis or infection.
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