Should I be concerned about my heart rate increasing while walking?
26 years old, 5'6", weighing 175lbs. I have asthma that I manage with an albuterol inhaler when needed, typically triggered by cold air or physical activity. Additionally, I’m on compounded semaglutide to aid my weight loss journey, and fortunately, I haven’t noticed any adverse effects from it. Recently, I acquired a smartwatch that monitors my heart rate, and during this past week, it has indicated that my resting heart rate fluctuates between 52 and 58 beats per minute. I'm moderately active, engaging in weightlifting 1-2 times a week, running at least weekly, and horseback riding 3-5 times weekly. Despite this level of activity, I was surprised to find my resting heart rate is this low. I spoke with my mother about my family’s medical history, and she mentioned that many relatives on my father’s side tend to have lower resting heart rates, which have never posed any problems for them. Personally, I feel completely healthy, but I am wondering if it’s common for my heart rate to rise to 100-120 beats per minute while walking at a relaxed pace. I recognize that wrist heart rate monitors might not be perfectly accurate, but I’d like to know if this warrants further attention or discussion with a healthcare professional. In the past, I have sought treatment for anxiety, which I currently do not feel requires any form of intervention. However, I find that visits to the doctor can sometimes feel dismissive due to this history, so I prefer to avoid them unless absolutely necessary. I take heart health very seriously—my brother suffered a heart attack at the age of 23, believed to be caused by complications from recent spinal surgery. It's hard to grasp that I might face a similar issue, especially since I don’t have any concerning symptoms. Could my elevated heart rate while walking be linked to my asthma? I don’t experience significant issues unless it’s notably cold (below 50 degrees Fahrenheit) or if I push myself too hard during a run. It's worth noting that I developed asthma in adulthood, so my understanding of it may not be comprehensive. Thanks for any assistance! I'm hoping this is simply an unusual quirk, but I’d prefer to be cautious.
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 8:01:26 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to have concerns about your heart rate, especially given your family history and personal health considerations. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns.
Main Points
- An increased heart rate during activity, even walking, can be normal, especially if you're managing asthma and other health factors.
- Your low resting heart rate may reflect good cardiovascular fitness, but the rise during activity should be monitored.
- Given your history and concerns, it's important to maintain awareness of your body's signals while ensuring you have effective management strategies in place.
Explanation
- Heart Rate Variability: Generally, a resting heart rate of 52-58 beats per minute can be common, especially for active individuals. Your heart rate naturally increases during physical activity as your body requires more oxygen.
- Asthma Considerations: Asthma can influence your heart rate, especially if you’re exerting yourself or if environmental factors, like cold air, trigger your symptoms. Breathing difficulties can lead to an increased heart rate in response to reduced oxygen availability.
- Family History: Given your brother's heart issues and your family history, it’s natural to be cautious. While many people with low resting heart rates remain healthy, it’s wise to keep an eye on how your heart responds to activity.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Heart Rate: Continue to track your heart rate during various activities. Note any symptoms like breathlessness, chest pain, or dizziness, which could signal a need for further evaluation.
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Breathing Techniques: Since you have asthma, consider practicing breathing exercises that may help manage your condition better during physical activities. This might reduce any respiratory-related heart rate increases.
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Adjust Activity Intensity: If you're noticing significant heart rate spikes, assess whether you might be overexerting yourself during exercises, especially in colder conditions.
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Regular Check-Ins: While you prefer to avoid doctor visits, consider scheduling an annual health check that includes heart health assessments. Blood pressure and cholesterol checks are also valuable, particularly given your family history.
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Stay Informed: Educate yourself about asthma management. Understanding your triggers and how to respond can help you keep your heart rate in check.
If your elevated heart rate becomes a consistent concern—especially with any accompanying symptoms—consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional for deeper insights tailored to your situation. Your proactive approach to your health is commendable, and staying informed will help you remain on the right track.
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