Re: heart rate

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on May 04, 1998 at 19:13:58:

In Reply to: heart rate posted by Dana  on May 04, 1998 at 18:44:13:






I have recently noticed that my heart rate while standing was in the high 90's and while sitting was in the low 60's.  I also recently took my pulse after riding an excercise bike fairly hard for 5 minutes and it was approximately 150.  Is this irregular?  Should I consult a physician about this?
Dear Dana:
It is normal for heart rates to be fast after exercise.  How quickly a heart rate returns to normal after exercise depends on how vigorous the exercise is and what sort of physical condition you are in.  The more de-conditioned a person is, the longer it takes for the heart rate to return to normal; the heart rate also rises with a lesser degree of exertion if one does not exercise regularly.  
The heart rate can increase a bit when you move from a seated to standing position.  A very marked increase (such as yours) is less common.  It may just be the way you have always been.  However, other possibilities are that you were dehydrated or are anemic (have low blood counts).  An excessive rise in heart rate is the body's way of compensating for these conditions.  Just to be on the safe side, have a general check-up by  your doctor.
Information provided here is for general purposes only.  Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and treatments.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment at Desk F15 with a cardiologist who specializes in fast heart rates.