The heart beats a number of times a minute and the “normal” rate is considered to be anywhere between 60-100. A rate below 60 is termed “bradycardia” and a rate above 100 is called “tachycardia”.
At times, it is normal to have a heart rate go above 100. This occurs during:
- Exercising rigorously
- Pregnancy
- Having a fever
- Being suddenly frightened
Bradycardia (rate below 60) is often seen:
- In people that exercise regularly
- In people taking a class of medications called “Beta Blockers”
- During sleep
However, in other situations, a below or above normal heart rate may be a sign of a health issue. For example, if an elderly person is having passing out or near passing out spells accompanied by a slow heart rate, this is an indication that pacemaker placement is needed. If the heart rate is fast, this could be an indication of an underlying heart issue such as congestive heart failure, anemia or a heart rhythm problem.
It is also important to remember that the parameters of a “normal” heart rate being 60-100 must factor in whet a person’s baseline heart rate has been. For example, if a person normally was running a heart rate of 72 beats per minute but then it becomes sustained at 95, even though the 95 is in the normal range, for the affected person this is abnormally high and should be checked out by a doctor.
Once a month check your heart rate and if you see a substantial change from YOUR “normal”, call your doctor. And certainly, if you feel a sensation of palpitations, check your pulse immediately.
No one wants a broken heart…and here is how to mend it. Enjoy a Bee Gees classic:
