| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | A bounding pulse is a strong and forceful pulse . Tachycardia is a heart rate that is faster than normal. It can occur alone, or it can accompany a bounding pulse. See also heartbeat sensations . |
| Alternative Names | Rapid heart rate; Tachycardia; Heartbeat - fast; Bounding pulse
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| Considerations | A bounding pulse can often be seen over 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 arrhythmias . A bounding pulse is often a sign that there is excessive fluid in the circulation (called fluid overload). |
| Common Causes | A rapid heart rate and bounding pulse both occur normally with heavy exercise , pregnancy , fever , or high anxiety . The pulse rate is normally fast in infants. The pulse is usually not bounding in an infant, however. A bounding pulse is often associated with high blood pressure or fluid overload. Fluid overload can occur with congestive heart failure , aortic valve regurgitation , chronic renal failure , and other conditions. |
| Home Care | Follow prescribed therapy. |
| Call your health care provider if | If there is any sudden, severe, or persistent increase in the pulse intensity or rate (particularly when accompanied by other symptoms, or when not relieved by resting for a few minutes), you should call your health care provider. |
| What to expect at your health care provider's office | The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. Medical history questions documenting bounding pulse in detail may include: Time pattern Is this the first time that a bounding pulse has been present? Did it develop suddenly or gradually? Is it present continuously? Is it only there when other symptoms (such as palpitations ) are also present? Aggravating factors Are you pregnant ? Have you had a fever ? Have you been very anxious or stressed? Do you have known blood pressure '>high blood pressure ? Do you have congestive heart failure ? Do you have kidney failure ? Do you have valvular heart disease ? Relieving factors Does it get better if you rest? Other What other symptoms are also present? Physical examination: Vital signs (temperature, pulse , rate of breathing, blood pressure ) will be monitored, and heart monitoring may be indicated. Diagnostic tests that may be performed include: Blood studies ( CBC or blood differential ) ECGEchocardiogramX-rays of the chest After seeing your health care provider: If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to a rapid or bounding pulse, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record. |
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