|
|
Pulse
Alternate Names : heart Beat, Heart Rate
Definition The measurement of the number of heartbeats per minute.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Why is the Test Performed?
Measuring the pulse can give very important information about the health of a person. Any deviation from normal heart rate can indicate a medical condition. Fast pulse may signal the presence of an infection or dehydration. In emergency situations, the pulse rate can help determine if the patient's heart is pumping.
The pulse measurement has other uses as well. During exercise or immediately after exercise, the pulse rate can give information about the fitness level and the health of a person.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Clinical Trials Update: Aug. 29, 2008 - Aug 29, 2008, 09:51
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial
- Lymphomas
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
| • | Study Questions Flu Shot's Mortality Protection for Elderly - Aug 29, 2008, 12:00
Canadian study found benefit to be statistically insignificant. | • | Some Hiroshima Survivors at Thyroid Cancer Risk - Aug 29, 2008, 14:00
Radiation may have caused chromosomal change that raises odds for malignancy, study finds | • | Mom's Smoking During Pregnancy Ups Preemie's SIDS Risk - Aug 29, 2008, 09:00
Fetal exposure to cigarette smoke appears to lower breathing recovery, study finds. | • | Leave That Ear Wax Alone - Aug 29, 2008, 12:00
New guidelines say most people don't need to remove it. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Special Considerations
• Risks
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Other Topics
• Heartbeat Sensations
• Pulse - Bounding
Review Date : 2/4/2002
Reviewed By : Poune Saberi, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Family Practice and Community Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
