Question
A parent inquired about the normality of their four-year-old daughter’s heart rate measurement. The daughter was found to have a heart rate of 88 beats per minute while sleeping. The parent wanted to know if this data falls within the normal range.
Answer
The normal heart rate range is generally considered to be between 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate below this range is known as bradycardia, but it does not always indicate a disease. Athletes or individuals who are regularly physically active may have lower heart rates due to stronger cardiac reserves, which can pump more blood with each heartbeat. As long as a child’s heart rate does not exceed 100 beats per minute and there are no other symptoms, there is usually no need for special concern.