Pulse - bounding Health Article

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 bounding pulse is often a sign of excessive fluid in the circulation (fluid overload).
• 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.

Common 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.

Call your health care provider if

Call your health care provider if you experience a sudden, severe, or persistent increase in the intensity or rate of your pulse. This is particularly important when this increase is accompanied by other symptoms, or when it is not relieved by resting for a few minutes.