Is Your Child's Heart Beat Normal?

Irregular heartbeat in children should be diagnosed in its early stages. Here are some facts to know.

Thursday, June 8, 2017, 15:15 [IST]

The human heart beat has a particular rhythm. The heart has a particular way of beating which allows it to function normally. If the heart beats too fast or skips a beat, it is considered as abnormal.

Abnormal heart rate in children could be a sign of a serious condition too. Firstly, what is normal and what's abnormal heart rate in children?

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Here are some facts every parent should know.

Fact #1

Heart rate is the average number of beats per minute when the child is in resting mode. When the child is between 3 to 4 years, the average resting rate should be between 80 and 120. Between the ages of 5 and 6 the heart rate should be between 75 and 115.

If your kid is between 7 and 9 years old, the heart rate should be between 60 and 110. After 10 years of age, it should be between 60 and 100.

Fact #2

When your child is very active, the heart rate could even go as high as 220 beats! Actually, infants have a higher rate compared to kids who are above 8-9 years.

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Fact #3

Changes in the heart rate are normal. Physical activity increases the rate and resting brings it to normal. Sleeping heart rate is lower than resting heart rate. In the same way, intense physical activity could rapidly increase it.

Fact #4

What should concern you? Well, if your kid's heart rate is to fast or too slow without any reason or a trigger then it is a cause of concern.

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Fact #5

Arrhythmia is a condition which can cause rapid changes in the beat. In some cases, the heart might also skip a beat. This condition needs medical attention.

Fact #6

Another condition known as Tachycardia can cause higher heart rate. If it is more than 100 beats in a minute, then it could be a cause of concern. There are 3 types of Tachycardia namely Bradycardia, Supraventricular tachycardia and Sinus tachycardia.

Fact #7

If your child displays symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, extreme fatigue without reasons, dizziness etc then it is better to check whether the heart rate is too slow or too fast.

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Fact #8

Certain heart related issues, narrow valves, certain infections, diabetes, sleep apnea, medications and even mineral and chemical imbalances could also cause irregular heart beat.

Fact #9

It is important to take your kid to a medical checkup if you observe too fast or too slow heart rate without any obvious reason. The doctor may suggest medication or surgery depending upon the diagnosis.