What does it mean when a 13-year-old has a heart rate of 120 beats per minute without any discomfort, and what should be done?
Feb 02, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate of 120 beats per minute is considered elevated. In a 13-year-old, a heart rate of 120 beats per minute may be caused by intense physical activity, myocarditis, pericarditis, anemia, hyperthyroidism, or other conditions. The patient should promptly seek medical evaluation at a reputable hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Under normal circumstances, the resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate of 120 beats per minute is considered elevated. In a 13-year-old child, a heart rate of 120 beats per minute may be caused by intense physical activity, myocarditis, pericarditis, anemia, hyperthyroidism, or other conditions. It is important for the patient to seek timely medical evaluation at a reputable hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Intense Physical Activity
During vigorous exercise, the body requires more oxygen and nutrients, prompting the heart to beat faster to meet these demands. This increase in heart rate is a normal physiological response and does not require special treatment. It is recommended that children rest appropriately and avoid overexertion.
2. Myocarditis
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle, which may be triggered by infections (especially viral infections) or autoimmune reactions. It can impair heart function and lead to an increased heart rate, often accompanied by symptoms such as chest tightness and shortness of breath. A 13-year-old child may be treated under a doctor's guidance with medications such as captopril tablets, metoprolol tartrate tablets, and furosemide tablets.
3. Pericarditis
Pericarditis refers to inflammation of the pericardium, which can result from infections, autoimmune responses, or other causes. It may lead to fluid accumulation in the pericardial cavity, increasing the heart's workload and causing tachycardia. Symptoms may include chest pain and rapid heartbeat. Treatment under medical supervision may include rifampicin tablets, isoniazid tablets, and sodium aminosalicylate enteric-coated tablets.
4. Anemia
Anemia is characterized by lower-than-normal levels of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. This reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, prompting the heart to beat faster to compensate for the oxygen deficit. Other symptoms may include dizziness, fatigue, and pallor. A 13-year-old child may be treated under a doctor’s direction with ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous succinate tablets, or ferrous fumarate tablets.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by overactivity of the thyroid gland, leading to excessive production of thyroid hormones, which can affect heart function. Symptoms include increased heart rate, increased appetite, and weight loss. Patients are advised to follow their doctor's recommendations and may be prescribed medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets.
In daily life, parents should pay attention to the dietary health of 13-year-old children. They should consume light, easily digestible foods and well-balanced, nutritious meals to provide essential nutrients and help strengthen the immune system.
