Is a heart rate of 120 beats per minute dangerous for an elderly person?

Jan 04, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My father’s heart rate was 120 beats per minute during a check-up the other day. Is a heart rate of 120 bpm dangerous for an elderly person?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Shilei
A heart rate exceeding 120 beats per minute is relatively considered tachycardia, warranting an electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine the specific type of tachycardia and initiate timely treatment. Prolonged tachycardia may lead to heart failure. Therefore, such patients require a comprehensive evaluation; prompt, targeted treatment based on detailed diagnostic findings can facilitate recovery and minimize harm to overall health.