Sunday, May 27, 2012

Friday, February 06, 2009 Cecelia asks

Q: What is normal heart rate for 81 yo woman?

Heart rate around 50 - 60, taken off tenormin for a week.  Has had open heart surgery and everythng has been fine for 5 years.  BP ranges from 160/100 - 126/75.  Dizziness and almost passing out.

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Martin Cane, M.D., Health Pro
2/ 7/09 1:16am

Cecelia,

 

Thanks for your question.

 

The normal heart rate for an adult is 60 - 100 beats per minute.  Certainly, your tenormin could account for your lower reading, and it might take a few more days for the tenormin to fully wear off.  A low rate of 50 is not terrible and most people tolerate this very well.  However, without a continuous monitor, it is tough to know if your pulse isn't dropping even further from time to time, or maybe you're having some pauses in your rhythm. 

 

In addition, your BP is up to a level that is too high, and if this persists, will need attention.

 

So, I would watch your pulse and symptoms for another week or so.  If the dizziness persists, then you need to see your physician sooner than that.  He will examine you, check an electrocardiogram and then decide if further tests are necessary.  With your history you need to keep a close eye on things and get frequent follow up with your doctor till everything settles down.

 

I hope this has been helpful.  Best wishes.

 

Martin Cane, M.D.

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By Cecelia— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 02/06/09