The radial pulse, found on the wrist, offers a simple way to gain insight into your body’s cardiovascular activity. It represents the rhythmic throbbing of an artery as blood moves through it, reflecting your heart’s pumping rate. Checking this pulse is a fundamental skill for monitoring basic vital signs and understanding your overall well-being.
Locating the Radial Artery
To locate the radial artery, extend one hand with your palm facing upwards. Identify the base of your thumb and the prominent bone on that side of your wrist. The radial artery lies in the groove between this bone and the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist.
Place the pads of your index and middle fingers from your other hand gently in this soft area. Adjust your position until you feel a throb or beat beneath your fingertips. This sensation confirms you have found the radial pulse.
Technique for Checking Pulse
Once the radial pulse is located, position your index and middle fingers firmly but gently over the artery. Avoid using your thumb, as it has its own pulse and can lead to an inaccurate reading. Apply just enough pressure to feel the distinct beats without pressing so hard that you obstruct the blood flow and lose the pulse.
To determine your pulse rate, begin counting the beats you feel. For the most accurate measurement, count the number of beats over a full 60-second period. Alternatively, you can count the beats for 30 seconds and then multiply that number by two to calculate the beats per minute. If the rhythm feels consistent, counting for 15 seconds and multiplying by four is another option.
While counting the rate, also observe the rhythm of the pulse. Notice if the beats occur at regular intervals or if they seem irregular, with pauses or extra beats. This observation provides additional information beyond just the number of beats per minute. A consistent, steady rhythm is generally expected when at rest.
Understanding Your Pulse Reading
Your pulse rate indicates your heart’s activity. For most adults, a typical resting heart rate falls within a range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. A lower resting heart rate often suggests more efficient heart function and better physical conditioning, with well-trained athletes sometimes having rates as low as 40 beats per minute.
Various factors can influence your pulse rate, causing it to fluctuate throughout the day. Physical activity, emotional responses like stress or excitement, and certain medications can temporarily alter your heart rate. Age, overall fitness level, body temperature, and hydration status can also play a role. An unusually fast or slow pulse, or an irregular rhythm, might indicate an underlying condition.
When to Consult a Medical Professional
While self-checking your radial pulse is a useful monitoring tool, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional if your resting pulse rate consistently falls outside the typical adult range (above 100 or below 60 beats per minute), especially if you are not a trained athlete.
Seek medical attention if you experience a persistent irregular heart rhythm, or if an abnormal pulse is accompanied by other physical symptoms. These symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, sweating, or confusion. Any sustained concern about your pulse should prompt a discussion with your doctor.