My husband had a colon test today and his pulse rate never got higher than 48 even before he was put to sleep. He has been having trouble with swelling in his feet and ankles for a while now plus being tired. His memorly has been lapse at times. He has mylodsymlastic symdrome, so we thought that maybe that was playing a part in the way he feels. Should he see a heart doctor?
Hi, Thanks for writing in. It is important to know the age of your husband and detailed clinical and treatment history. Myelodysplasia syn Chat Doctor. Pulse rate is a reflection of heart beats. It can go below 60 in the elderly. If your husband has been an active athlete in the past then having a low pulse rate is explainable. However, if his earlier ECG and echocardiography tests have been normal then this is a concern and must be investigated by a cardiologist. It is possible that his heart conduction or electrical activity is being affected and this is causing slow discharges leading to reduced heart rate and pulse. Swelling of limbs also can be related to heart conditions. Memory lapses need to be evaluated keeping in mind his age if he is an elderly or due to any particular tendency for impaired cognitive function. It will help to get him consult a cardiologist. Please do not worry.