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Pulse - bounding - Overview

Alternative Names

Bounding pulse

Definition of Pulse - bounding:

A bounding pulse is a strong and forceful pulse.

Considerations:

A bounding pulse can often be seen in arteries that are close to the skin.
A bounding pulse may be a sign of excessive fluid in the circulation (fluid overload).
A rapid heart rate (tachycardia) and bounding pulse can occur together or separately.
A rapid pulse can be a symptom of arrhythmia.

Common Causes:

A bounding pulse and rapid heart rate both occur in the following conditions or events:

Anxiety
Heavy exercise
Fever
Pregnancy
Overactivy thyroid

A bounding pulse can result from fluid overload due to heart failure, chronic kidney failure, and other conditions. It may also occur in aortic valve regurgitation.

Reviewed last on: 5/23/2010
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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