Heart rate 136 on an adult - what does it mean?

Where 136 bpm sits on the adult scale

What a resting pulse of 136 means

If you just climbed stairs, exercised or are very anxious, a pulse of 136 can be a normal response and should fall within minutes. A fast rate that persists at rest can come from fever, dehydration, blood loss or anemia, an overactive thyroid, or a heart rhythm disorder such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter or supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

An irregular pulse at this speed is a typical sign of atrial fibrillation, which raises stroke risk and should always be evaluated.

Ranges apply to adults and children aged 10 and older, measured at rest (American Heart Association). By the numbers: at 136 bpm the heart beats about every 0.44 seconds — roughly 195,840 beats a day.

Cocaine, amphetamines and a resting pulse of 136

Street stimulants act on the same nervous system that prepares the body for danger. Cocaine stops nerve endings from clearing noradrenaline and dopamine, so these signals linger. Amphetamine, methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy, molly) push nerve cells to release more of them. Either way the heart receives a constant “go faster” message. A pulse of 136 while sitting still, often with a dry mouth, wide pupils, sweating and restlessness, is a typical result.

Speed is only part of the strain. These drugs also tighten blood vessels and raise blood pressure, so the heart works harder while its own arteries may narrow. That is how cocaine can cause a heart attack in a young person with clean arteries. They can also trigger irregular rhythms, and MDMA in a hot, crowded room can drive body temperature up dangerously, which lifts the pulse further.

Combinations make things worse. Cocaine taken with alcohol forms a compound called cocaethylene that stays in the body longer. Mixing stimulants with energy drinks, other uppers or some prescription medicines adds to the load on the heart.

Warning signs that mean calling for help

• chest pain, pressure or a crushing feeling, even if it comes and goes;
• a pulse that keeps climbing, or a beat that turns irregular;
• very hot skin, confusion, extreme agitation or seeing things that are not there;
• a severe headache, weakness on one side or trouble speaking;
• a seizure or collapse.

Any of these needs 911. Many US states have Good Samaritan laws that give some legal protection to people who call for help during an overdose; the details vary by state, but the call is worth making. While waiting, move the person somewhere cool and quiet and stay with them.

Being honest with the medical team

Tell paramedics and emergency staff exactly what was taken, how much and when. This is not about getting anyone in trouble. Stimulant-related chest pain is managed somewhat differently from other chest pain, and the choice of medicine to calm the heart can depend on it. Calming medicines, cooling and close heart monitoring are the usual tools.

Once the drug wears off, the rate usually comes down over hours, but heavy or repeated use can leave the heart with lasting damage, including a weakened muscle. If you would like support to cut down, the SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) is free and confidential. For how a healthy resting rate looks once things settle, see resting heart rate.

For a reliable resting value, sit quietly for five minutes first and average a few mornings: Resting Heart Rate: What It Says About Your Health. You can also measure by tapping along on the start page.

Nearby values

• 131 bpm
• 132 bpm
• 133 bpm
• 134 bpm
• 135 bpm
• 137 bpm
• 138 bpm
• 139 bpm
• 140 bpm
• 141 bpm

Measured on a child instead? See heart rate 136 in a child.

Sources: American Heart Association: All About Heart Rate · MedlinePlus: Pulse · ACSM position stand on exercise intensity (2011)

This page explains a single reading in general terms. It is not a diagnosis. Heart rate alone cannot tell whether the rhythm is regular or whether the heart is healthy — if you are worried, talk to a doctor.