My pulse fluctuates from 80bpm to 55bpm – is this normal or should I be worried?
OUR resident specialist and NHS GP, Dr Zoe Williams, shares her expert advice.
Today, Dr Zoe helps an elderly reader who wonders if it is normal for their pulse to fluctuates between 80bpm and 55bpm.
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Q) I AM 82 years old and my pulse fluctuates between 80bpm and 55bpm. Is this normal?
A) Strictly speaking, a normal resting heart is defined as being between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
But it is perfectly normal for the heart rate to go as low as 55 at night, when the body is in a state of relaxation.
Some people, particularly those who are very fit, usually athletes, may have a resting daytime heart rate that is below 60.
It's generally a sign of a healthy and efficient heart.
So if these lower readings are occurring at night, then there is nothing here that is concerning, especially if you feel well otherwise.
It's also normal and a good sign if the heart rate increases above 100 when you are physically exerting yourself.
It means the heart is responding appropriately.
If your heart rate drops below 50 bpm, or the variability is not tied to rest and more active periods, or if you have any associated symptoms, then I would advise getting it checked.
I'd recommend keeping an eye on any symptoms that might accompany these fluctuations, such as dizziness, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, or extreme fatigue.
The sleep position that could be a sign of heart failure - plus three other symptoms to look out for
You don't say if you are using a fitness tracking watch to make these readings.
If you have any abnormal activities or alerts, save them in case they become handy for any GP investigations.
TIP: Symptoms of heart issues can easily be swept under the carpet.
For example, shortness of breath, especially during exercise, fatigue or swelling in the ankles - which we may mistake for summer heat-related issues.
These are warning signs of a potential heart-related problem. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant a trip to the GP.
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