Baylor Health Care System
 

Pulse - bounding

Definition

A bounding pulse is a strong and forceful pulse.

See also: heart palpitations.

Alternative Names

Bounding pulse

Considerations

  • A bounding pulse can often be seen in arteries that are close to the skin.
  • A rapid heart rate and bounding pulse can occur together, but can also occur separately.
  • A rapid pulse can be a symptom of arrhythmia. Tachycardia, a heart rate that is faster than normal, may accompany a bounding pulse.
  • A bounding pulse is often a sign of excessive fluid in the circulation (fluid overload).

Causes

  • A rapid heart rate and bounding pulse both occur normally with heavy exercise, pregnancy, fever, or high anxiety.
  • A bounding pulse is often associated with high blood pressure or fluid overload. Fluid overload can occur with heart failure, aortic valve regurgitation, chronic kidney failure, and other conditions.

Review Date: 11/6/2006
Reviewed By: Glenn Gandelman, MD, MPH, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.