Chronotropic incompetence

Chronotropic incompetence is when the heart cannot increase its rate adequately during physical activity or stress. Normally, your heart speeds up when you exercise to supply your muscles with more oxygen. In this condition, the heart's response is blunted or delayed, leading to insufficient blood flow and reduced exercise capacity. It can result from issues like nerve damage, medications, or heart conditions affecting the heart's ability to adjust its rate appropriately. This condition can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, or limited physical activity tolerance and may require medical evaluation and management.