A normal heart rate varies from person to person, and it also depends on factors like age and activity level. Generally, a heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm) is considered normal for adults.
Children have higher heart rates, and the rate decreases as they grow older.
Here is a table showing the normal heart rate by age:.
Age | Resting Heart Rate (bpm) |
---|---|
Newborn to 1 month | 70-190 |
1 month to 1 year | 80-160 |
1-2 years | 80-130 |
3-4 years | 80-120 |
5-6 years | 75-115 |
7-9 years | 70-110 |
10-14 years | 60-105 |
15-19 years | 55-95 |
20-24 years | 50-90 |
25-29 years | 50-90 |
30-34 years | 50-85 |
35-39 years | 50-90 |
40-44 years | 50-90 |
45-49 years | 50-90 |
50-54 years | 50-90 |
55-59 years | 50-85 |
60-64 years | 50-90 |
65-69 years | 50-90 |
70-74 years | 50-90 |
75 years and over | 50-90 |
Factors Affecting Heart Rate
There are several factors that can affect a person’s heart rate, including:.
Age
As we have seen in the table above, heart rate varies with age. Newborns have the highest heart rate, which gradually decreases as they grow older.
Fitness Level
Regular exercise can help lower resting heart rate, as it makes your heart stronger and more efficient. Athletes and people who exercise regularly often have lower resting heart rates than sedentary individuals.
Body Size
People who are larger or heavier may have a higher heart rate than those who are smaller or lighter. This is because the heart has to work harder to pump blood to a larger body or frame.
Medications
Certain medications, like beta-blockers, can lower your heart rate. On the other hand, stimulants like caffeine and nicotine can raise your heart rate.
Emotional State
Your heart rate can increase due to stress, anxiety, or excitement. This is because these emotions trigger the release of stress hormones like adrenaline, which can increase heart rate.
Body Position
Standing up from a sitting or lying position can cause a temporary increase in heart rate, as gravity makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the upper body.
When to Consult a Doctor
While the normal heart rate by age table can be a helpful guideline, it is important to remember that every person is unique and their normal heart rate may vary.
If you have concerns about your heart rate or experience any of the following symptoms, you should consult a doctor:.
- Irregular heartbeat
- Rapid heartbeat (over 100 bpm) at rest
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting or dizziness
These symptoms may be a sign of an underlying heart condition, and it is important to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Knowing your normal heart rate by age can help you monitor your cardiovascular health and identify any potential issues. While heart rate varies from person to person, the table provided above can be a helpful guideline.
If you are concerned about your heart rate or experience any symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor.