Asthma & Heart Rate in Children

A study published by the University of Florida Health Science Center in 1999 showed the variety of factors that indicate severity of asthma exacerbation, including elevated heart rate. Heart rate is variable based on age, with normal heart rate for children between 1 year and 10 years being 70 to 120 beats per minute, according to Medline Plus.

No Exacerbation

• Normal heart rate, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation typically indicate absence of asthma exacerbation.

Mild Exacerbation

• Heart rate less than 100 beats per minute and increased respiratory rate may indicate a mild asthma exacerbation.

Moderate Exacerbation

• Elevated heart rate of 100 to 120 beats per minute, increased respiratory rate and reduced oxygen saturation may indicate a moderate asthma exacerbation.

Severe Exacerbation

• A severe asthma exacerbation is characterized by significantly elevated heart rate to more than 120 beats per minute, significantly increased respiratory rate and significantly reduced oxygen saturation.

Imminent Respiratory Arrest

• Imminent respiratory arrest may be indicated by below-normal heart rate or bradychardia, which can indicate hypoxemia. Hypoxemia, which is low levels of arterial blood oxygen, and other symptoms can indicate severe oxygen deprivation leading to imminent respiratory arrest.