How to Compare Heart Rate & Pulse
As the heart rhythmically contracts and relaxes, the arteries simultaneously pump to push the blood through the body. The rhythm of contraction and relaxation creates a pulse. A measurement taken of the arteries' pulse is called a pulse or heart rate. A heart rate is a vital sign useful in determining general health. Recording your heart rate is a simple procedure that you can do at home to gauge your overall health.
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Instructions
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Taking a Pulse Reading
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Stay still while taking a resting pulse reading. Any movement can give a false reading of the resting rate. To check the carotid artery pulse, place the index and middle fingers of one hand on the neck just below the jawline, directly under the ear.
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Use a clock to time a 10-second period, and count the number of beats. Take this number and multiply by 6. The result is the number of beats per minute, or resting pulse rate. For example, if the number of beats felt on the neck equals 11, then the pulse rate is 66 beats per minute.
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Determine whether your pulse rate is normal. A normal resting pulse for an adult is approximately 60 to 100 beats per minute. Illnesses or drugs can affect the rate. Athletes might have below-average pulse rates, between 40 and 60 beats per minute. Generally, a lower pulse rate reflects a higher fitness level. Consult your physician if your heart rate is not in the normal zone.
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Tips & Warnings
Never use your thumb for a pulse reading. Your thumb has a pulse of its own, which might affect measurements.
Like other muscles, your heart can be trained to be stronger. Increasing your fitness with exercise is an effective way to train your heart to be more efficient at pumping blood, and to decrease your resting heart rate.
Consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your heart rate.
