Question: If you are teenager in growth, does your heart beat faster?

Gemma Barron answered on 18 Nov 2015:

Hi @Jorge,
Thank you for your very interesting question. As teenagers develop and grow during puberty their heart can develop 40% more heart muscle but, it does tend to be have a regular heart rhythm of about 70 beats/minute. Not only teenagers but, also in younger children and adults, your heart rate can change easily – exercise makes it beat faster whilst sleep slows it down. However, some teenagers do develop a condition called postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) which is an abnormal increase in heart rate after a growth spurt but, this normally doesn’t stay for the rest your life as it gradually disappears a few years later. PoTS can also occur during or after pregnancy or after a viral illness or traumatic event. I think that most important thing is knowing what is normal for you and if you notice a difference in your heart rate, speak to your doctor who will be able to give you medical advice. I hope that answers your question. Thanks, Gemma