What causes decreased heart rate in a 13-year-old child?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am around 13 years old, and the smartwatch has reduced my resting heart rate to 50 beats per minute, which makes me concerned. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Resting heart rate between 50 to 100 beats per minute is still alright based on your age, especially if you are athletic. These electronic devices use light-sensitive photodiodes to detect changes in the capillaries to estimate heart rate, and it is not 100 percent accurate as it is just an estimate.

If you are experiencing anxiety and heartburn more often, we need to focus on treating them, and your heart rate can be increased. However, there is nothing to worry about now unless you have a severe infection, fever, or other symptoms. A tablet of Acetaminophen may also cause bradycardia (lower heart rate), so avoid using it very often. Try to exercise more often (cardio-like running) and manage your heartburn by eating healthy and not lying down immediately after eating.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.