FAQs on Resting Heart Rate

Q: Which specialist doctor to consult for heart diseases?

A: Cardiologists are the doctors specializing in diagnosing and treating blood vessels and several cardiovascular diseases. A visit to a cardiologist would mainly assess and help learn about the risk factors pertaining to a heart disease. A cardiologist also finds out what measures can be taken for better heart health.

Q: What is a good resting heart rate by age?

A: Normal heart rates at rest:

• Children (ages 6–15) it is 70–100 beats per minute.
• Adults (age 18 and over) it is 60–100 beats per minute.

Q: What is a bad resting heart rate?

A: Visiting the doctor is a must if the heart rate is consistently above 100 beats per minute or below 60 beats per minute (and a person is not an athlete).

Q: What should a walking heart rate be?

A: One way to determine walking fast enough is to measure the heart rate.

A safe target for the heart rate while exercising, for most adults, happens to be 50 to 85 percent of the maximum heart rate.

Q: How do you calm a racing heart?

A: 

Begin with breathing deeply. It will help you relax until your palpitations pass away. Splash your face with enough cold water. It stimulates a nerve that does control your heart rate. Do not panic. Stress and anxiety will make your palpitations go worse.