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Are fluctuating pulse levels on a pulse oximeter normal?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

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?

Answered by Dr. Prashant Valecha

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prashant Valecha is a General Practitioner with expertise in Preventive and Noninvasive Cardiology. He completed his MD (Physician) from Yerevan State Medical University, Armenia, in 2009, and brings over 14 years of clinical experience to his practice in Bhopal. Skilled in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of cardiac ailments, Dr. Valecha focuses on early detection, risk-factor management, and noninvasive treatment approaches to heart disease. He is committed to patient-centered, evidence-based care, helping patients achieve better heart health and overall well-being through prevention, timely intervention, and clear, compassionate guidance.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At April 20, 2022
Reviewed At April 29, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prashant Valecha is a General Practitioner with expertise in Preventive and Noninvasive Cardiology. He completed his MD (Physician) from Yerevan State Medical University, Armenia, in 2009, and brings over 14 years of clinical experience to his practice in Bhopal. Skilled in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of cardiac ailments, Dr. Valecha focuses on early detection, risk-factor management, and noninvasive treatment approaches to heart disease. He is committed to patient-centered, evidence-based care, helping patients achieve better heart health and overall well-being through prevention, timely intervention, and clear, compassionate guidance.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prashant Valecha is a General Practitioner with expertise in Preventive and Noninvasive Cardiology. He completed his MD (Physician) from Yerevan State Medical University, Armenia, in 2009, and brings over 14 years of clinical experience to his practice in Bhopal. Skilled in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of cardiac ailments, Dr. Valecha focuses on early detection, risk-factor management, and noninvasive treatment approaches to heart disease. He is committed to patient-centered, evidence-based care, helping patients achieve better heart health and overall well-being through prevention, timely intervention, and clear, compassionate guidance.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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