Pulse Measurement: What To Think About
Content provided by Healthwise
What To Think About
Call your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- An irregular or rapid heartbeat (palpitations). Palpitations can be persistent or may come and go (episodic).
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
Talk to your doctor if you have a fast heart rate, many skipped or extra beats, or if the blood vessel where you check your pulse feels hard.
Many people take their pulse during or right after exercise, to check their heart rate and to find out if they are exercising at a healthy pace. Your heart rate (pulse) during and after exercise will be higher than your resting heart rate.
Call your doctor if your heart rate does not come down within a few minutes after you have stopped exercising.
As you continue to exercise regularly, your heart rate will not rise as high as it once did with the same amount of effort. This is a sign that you are becoming more fit. For more information, see the topic Fitness.
| Last updated: | April 17, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Brian D. O'Brien, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
