Are fluctuating pulse levels on a pulse oximeter normal?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 9-year-old daughter has symptoms of a viral infection (low fever, sore throat, stuffy nose). When she went to sleep, I checked her blood oxygen level with a pulse oximeter. Her blood oxygen level is normal, but her pulse fluctuates from 69 to 98 pretty quickly. Is this normal?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Usually, heart rate is higher in children below 12 years. When a person has a fever, the heart rate increases and this fluctuation can also be seen. Fluctuation can also occur because the pulse oximeter sensor cannot sometimes stabilize at higher rates. You can check the pulse manually by putting your two fingers (index and middle) on the radial artery (artery below the palm on the side of the thumb). The pulse can be fast, but it will be regular. If you feel that the irregularity is very prominent, you can do an ECG (electrocardiogram) and upload it here. Thank you.