“A heart rate is the number of times the heart beats, and usually it is felt in your wrist with two fingertips. Heart rate varies between 60 to 100 beats per minute, so anything less than 60 beats per minute is considered a low heart rate and anything more than 100 is considered a fast heart rate. Usually athletes or people who are physically fit have a very low heart rate, and it is not of concern. Sometimes the heart rate goes less than 40 or 35 beats per minute, and you can feel dizzy and weak. That is a concern, so you need to seek medical attention. Sometimes a fast heart rate can also make you feel weak and could also see be seen in people with fever, anemia, thyroid disease, or a significant heart condition. Normally, a healthy heart rate is about 60 to 70 beats per minute. A lot of times with people with heart disease, we give medications called beta blockers to slow the heart rate, so the heart pumps efficiently and is also in a good healthy condition.”
Ramesh Gowda, MD is a board-certified cardiologist at Mount Sinai Doctors Brooklyn Heights. Mount Sinai Doctors Brooklyn Heights is a two-floor multispecialty practice with a walk-in urgent care center and more than 35 specialties. Located at 300 Cadman Plaza West, the practice is situated on the 17th and 18th floors.