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The pulse rate during adolescence can be anywhere from as low as 50 or 60 beats per minute to as high as 90 or 100 beats per minute. Before jumping to any conclusions, it is important to have your pulse rate checked by a professional. The easiest thing to do is to ask your school nurse to check your pulse for you.
A fast pulse rate is often found in anxious individuals. It may also be due to fever, exercise or not enough fluid intake during exercise especially in hot climates. Abuse of drugs can cause a rapid pulse. A rapid heart rate is consistently found in people who smoke marijuana. Many teenagers describe a feeling of the heart pounding when they use marijuana. Drugs such as “uppers” (amphetamines), cocaine, tobacco, diet pills, some cough and cold medications, coffee and other caffeine-containing beverages cause a fast heartbeat. Medications used for asthma can also cause a fast pulse. There are other serious causes of a high pulse rate, such as hyperthyroidism and other medical conditions. A rapid pulse itself probably does not cause light-headedness or dizziness, but these may be symptoms associated with whatever is causing the fast heart rate. Talk to your nurse about your concerns after she checks your pulse.
Posted 12-27-02
Do you have a question?  As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full  .
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