Pulse - bounding

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Pulse - bounding

Definition:

A bounding pulse is a strong and forceful pulse. Tachycardia, a heart rate that is faster than normal, may accompany a bounding pulse.

See also heart palpitations.

Alternative Names:

Bounding pulse

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 arrhythmia.
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.
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 kidney failure, and other conditions.

Review Date: 10/15/2004
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hosptial, Boston, Ma.

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