Which condition would not cause an elevated pulse of a child?

Which condition would not cause an elevated pulse of a child?

• A. Fever
• B. Anemia
• C. Hypothyroidism
• D. Exercise

Answer: (C)

Pulse rate in children reflects metabolic demand and autonomic activity. Fever raises metabolic rate and circulating catecholamines, so the heart tends to beat faster. Anemia reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, prompting the heart to increase rate to improve oxygen delivery. Exercise activates the sympathetic system, acutely increasing heart rate to meet higher demand for blood flow. In contrast, hypothyroidism lowers metabolic rate and sympathetic activity, often leading to a slower heart rate rather than an elevated one. So, hypothyroidism would not cause an elevated pulse.

Pulse rate in children reflects metabolic demand and autonomic activity. Fever raises metabolic rate and circulating catecholamines, so the heart tends to beat faster. Anemia reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, prompting the heart to increase rate to improve oxygen delivery. Exercise activates the sympathetic system, acutely increasing heart rate to meet higher demand for blood flow. In contrast, hypothyroidism lowers metabolic rate and sympathetic activity, often leading to a slower heart rate rather than an elevated one. So, hypothyroidism would not cause an elevated pulse.