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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Increased Heart Rate While Exercising At The Age Of 72 A Cause For Concern?

I am 72 years old, moderately active, with no previous major health issues. I am currently being treated for prehypertension with Valsartan (160 mg), high cholesterol with 2000 mg daily of Niacin and 1000 mg daily of Omega 3. BP is under control at about 130/72, total cholesterol is about 104, and triglycerides about 150. I walk about 6 miles three times per week, and have recently added treadmill at a 4.5 mph pace plus incline to bring my heart rate to 150 and to sustain that level for about 3 to 5 minutes, at which time I back off of the pace and incline until the rate is about 110 to 120 (total treadmill time is 40 minutes for 2 or 3 times per week). It has been about a month since I began the treadmill work, and my resting heart rate in the early morning has dropped to 55 to 60 and has twice been about 50. Prior to the treadmill work, my resting heart rate was 62 and above. Should I consult my physician to determine if there is a problem?
Fri, 14 Aug 2020
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Endocrinologist 's  Response
Hi,

Congratulations for leading a healthy lifestyle and being able to exercise well enough for your age. Your BP and blood reports are well controlled.It is normal to reach a higher level of heart rate during exercise which for your age should be around 120-130.

In case you do not experience any chest pain and feel fine it should be okay but you do not need to be very aggressive in raising your heart rate to more than this. Also an athletic heart has a lower resting rate. In case you have any dizziness, or chest pain you should stop immediately and consult a doctor.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Preeti Jolly, Endocrinologist
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Is Increased Heart Rate While Exercising At The Age Of 72 A Cause For Concern?

Hi, Congratulations for leading a healthy lifestyle and being able to exercise well enough for your age. Your BP and blood reports are well controlled.It is normal to reach a higher level of heart rate during exercise which for your age should be around 120-130. In case you do not experience any chest pain and feel fine it should be okay but you do not need to be very aggressive in raising your heart rate to more than this. Also an athletic heart has a lower resting rate. In case you have any dizziness, or chest pain you should stop immediately and consult a doctor. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Preeti Jolly, Endocrinologist