Pulse, bounding

Alternative names:

bounding pulse; heartbeat - fast; rapid heart rate; tachycardia

Definition:

A bounding pulse is a strong and forceful pulse. Tachycardia is when the heart rate is faster than normal. It can occur alone or can accompany a bounding pulse. See also heartbeat sensations.

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, acute renal failure, chronic renal failure, and other conditions.

Note: There may be other causes of a rapid or bounding pulse. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for a rapid or bounding pulse, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.