Pulse rate

Pulse rate or heart rate is the speed of the heartbeat measured by the number of contractions (beats) of the heart per minute (bpm). The heart rate can vary according to the body's physical needs, including the need to absorb oxygen and excrete carbon dioxide. It is usually equal or close to the pulse measured at any peripheral point. Activities that can provoke change include physical exercise, sleep, anxiety, stress, illness, and ingestion of drugs.

Measurement

The pulse rate is usually measured at the wrist, using the index and middle finger. This measurement is known as the radial pulse. Other points where the pulse can be measured include the neck (carotid pulse), the groin (femoral pulse), behind the knee (popliteal pulse), near the ankle joint (posterior tibial pulse), and on the foot (dorsalis pedis pulse).

Normal pulse rates

The normal pulse rate for healthy adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. The pulse rate may fluctuate and increase with exercise, illness, injury, and emotions. Females, in general, have a higher pulse rate than males. Athletes, who do a lot of cardiovascular conditioning, may have a lower pulse rate.

Factors affecting pulse rate

Various factors can affect the pulse rate, including but not limited to, an individual's age, fitness level, and stress levels. Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or arrhythmias, can also affect the pulse rate.

See also

• Heart rate monitor
• Cardiac cycle
• Blood pressure

Pulse rate Resources
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