Most of the time, children’s hearts beat in a steady, healthy way. It’s also common for kids to feel a skipped beat or a fast heartbeat once in a while, especially when they’re excited, nervous or running around. These moments usually don’t mean anything is wrong.

But sometimes, an irregular heartbeat, also called a pediatric arrhythmia, can be a sign that your child needs to see a doctor. Knowing what’s normal, what to watch for, and when to ask for help can give you peace of mind and help protect your child’s heart.  

“Many irregular heartbeats in children are harmless, but some can be a sign of an underlying heart problem. We want parents to know the warning signs and trust their instincts,” says Michael Ralston, M.D., pediatric cardiologist at Dayton Children’s Hospital. 

what is an irregular heartbeat?

An irregular heartbeat can feel different for each child. Your child might say it feels like:

• Skipped beats: The heart feels like it jumps or pauses 
• Racing heart: The heart suddenly beats very fast 
• Slow heartbeat: The heart feels slower than usual 
• Fluttering or pounding: The heart feels uneven or very strong 

Most of the time, these feelings are normal if they happen once in a while. For example, a skipped beat during play or excitement usually isn’t a cause for concern. 

signs you should contact a pediatric cardiologist

While many irregular heartbeats are harmless, some signs mean it’s time to call a heart specialist. These include: 

• Irregular heartbeats that happen often or last a long time 
• Fainting, dizziness or feeling lightheaded 
• Shortness of breath or chest pain 
• Extreme tiredness or trouble keeping up with other kids 
• A family history of heart disease or sudden heart problems 

Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s ok to ask. 

common causes of irregular heartbeats in kids

Some common reasons include:

• Extra beats that are not harmful
• Excitement, exercise, or anxiety
• Fever or illness
• Not drinking enough water or changes in body salts
• Heart conditions, including rhythm problems passed down in families

Heart doctors use tools like ECGs, heart monitors and heart ultrasounds to learn if a heartbeat is harmless or needs treatment.

how parents can help

You can help by keeping track of your child’s symptoms. Writing things down or taking a short video can help the cardiologist understand what’s happening. 

• When symptoms happen, how long they last and what your child feels 
• Any family history of heart problems 
• Your child’s daily habits, like sleep, water intake, exercise and recent illnesses

You can help by keeping track of your child’s symptoms. Writing things down or taking a short video can help the cardiologist understand what’s happening. 

pediatric heart care you can count on

Most irregular heartbeats in children are harmless and often go away on their own. Knowing what to watch for and speaking up when something feels off can help catch concerns early. 

If you have questions about your child’s heart or notice symptoms that worry you, our pediatric cardiology team is here for you. Dayton Children’s provides expert heart care made just for infants, children and teens. 

Schedule an appointment with our pediatric cardiology specialists today to support your child’s heart health, now and for the future.