Pulse refers to the regular rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries that occurs with each heartbeat. It can be felt by placing fingers over an artery in the body, such as the wrist or neck.
The pulse is an important indicator of heart function and can provide information about heart rate, rhythm, and volume of blood being pumped through the body. A normal resting pulse for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute, although this can vary depending on factors such as age, fitness level, and overall health.
In addition to heart function, the pulse can also be affected by other factors such as stress, medication, and certain medical conditions. An irregular or fast pulse may be a sign of a heart condition or other underlying health issue, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
To measure your pulse, you can place your index and middle fingers on the inside of your wrist, just below the base of your thumb. Apply gentle pressure until you feel the pulse, and count the number of beats you feel over a 15-second period. Multiply this number by 4 to get your heart rate in beats per minute. Alternatively, you can use a pulse oximeter or other medical device to measure your pulse.
