Pulse

The pulse is a vital sign that reflects the rhythmic expansion and contraction of an artery caused by the ejection of blood from the left ventricle of the heart during each cardiac cycle. The pulse rate, measured in beats per minute, provides important information about a person's heart rate and blood flow.

Pulse evaluation

Femtosecond pulses

Radial pulse (26771473070)

Physiology of the Pulse

Every time the heart beats, it pumps blood into the arteries, creating a pressure wave that propagates along the arterial tree. This wave causes the arterial walls to expand and then contract, a phenomenon that can be palpated as the pulse at various points in the body.

The pulse rate corresponds to the heart's rate of contractions, or heartbeats, and is typically used as an indicator of the heart rate. However, in certain conditions, such as in the presence of cardiac arrhythmias, the pulse may not accurately reflect the heart rate.

Measurement of the Pulse

The pulse can be measured manually by palpation or with an electronic device such as a heart rate monitor. Common sites for manual palpation of the pulse include the radial artery at the wrist, the carotid artery in the neck, and the brachial artery in the arm.

In addition to the pulse rate, the strength and rhythm of the pulse can also provide valuable clinical information. Changes in these characteristics can indicate a variety of cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, or arrhythmias.

Clinical Significance

Pulse rate is a vital sign and provides important information about a person's overall health and fitness. It can be affected by various factors including age, sex, physical fitness, and stress levels.

Abnormal pulse rates, whether too slow (bradycardia) or too fast (tachycardia), or an irregular pulse rhythm can be indicative of a medical condition and warrant further investigation.

References

Pulse Resources
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