Is it normal to have a high pulse rate after a brisk walk?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 40-year-old male, obese, non-smoker, non-drinker, and non-diabetic. My lipids and blood pressure are controlled with Rosuvastatin 5 mg and Olmesartan 20 mg. My question is that I walk briskly on a regular basis, and my pulse reaches up to 145 to 150 beats per minute without any breathlessness. Recovery is also good, as my pulse drops around 25 beats per minute within one minute. Does this mean that my heart is free from plaque and I am safe?

After reaching 150 beats per minute, I experience slight discomfort or possibly anxiety, but no breathlessness. I am very scared of undergoing a treadmill (TMT) test, but I am also anxious to know if being able to reach 150 beats per minute without any issues means that my heart is in perfect condition.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, if your heart rate goes above 150 beats per minute without any chest pain or heaviness, the probability of significant blockages (more than 60 to 70 percent) is very low. However, neither this nor even a TMT (treadmill test) will help rule out plaque buildup. A TMT does not help diagnose or rule out plaque, as blood supply to the heart is not reduced even at a very high heart rate. For detecting plaques, CT (computed tomography) coronary angiography is a good investigation. Although it may not be absolutely necessary for you, you might consider undergoing screening with CT angiography or a TMT in a few years, just to be on the safer side, given your risk factors. In the meantime, continue with a healthy lifestyle and your medications.

Thanks and regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is unlikely to develop blockages at this age with well-controlled blood pressure and lipid levels. However, as age progresses, one may develop minor blockages or plaques despite good control. That said, you should continue maintaining tight control to reduce the risk of such blockages. It is normal to experience some discomfort and breathlessness at a high heart rate. More importantly, if you experience repeated chest discomfort or heaviness that occurs with exertion and is relieved by rest, then you should be concerned and consider undergoing a treadmill test to rule out the possibility of blockages.

Thank you.