Normal heart rate for children is related to age, with newborns ranging from 120 to 140 beats per minute (bpm), 110 to 130 bpm for children under 1 year old, 100 to 120 bpm for 2 to 3 years old, 80 to 100 bpm for 4 to 7 years old, and 70 to 90 bpm for 8 to 12 years old. Additionally, changes in heart rate can also be influenced by diet, exercise, emotions, and other factors. Children tend to have a faster heart rate due to their active metabolism.
1. If a child frequently experiences a fast heartbeat, sometimes accompanied by chest tightness or shortness of breath, and these symptoms persist regardless of rest or emotional state, or if the heart rate remains high even after rest or during sleep, it is recommended to consult a doctor for an electrocardiogram (ECG) and myocardial enzyme spectrum examination.
2. Children's pulse rate is unstable and can be easily influenced by various internal and external factors, such as eating, activity, crying, and fever. Therefore, it is best to measure a child's pulse when they are calm. If the pulse rate increases significantly and does not slow down during sleep, it may be suspected of organic heart disease, and a comprehensive medical examination is necessary.
3. Children's heart nerves are dominated by sympathetic nerves, with low vagal nerve excitability and limited cardiac output. To meet the demands of growth, development, and active metabolism, children need to increase their heart rate to enhance cardiac output. Therefore, children tend to have a relatively faster heart rate, which gradually decreases as they age.
4. For older children, it is generally recommended to check the pulse using a superficial artery, such as the radial artery. For infants and young children, it is best to check the femoral artery or use cardiac auscultation to detect the heart rate.
