A pulse check is a quick and easy way to assess your heartbeat. You can easily perform this check yourself at home.
Where to Find Your Pulse
You can find your pulse at several points on your body where arteries lie close to the skin's surface. The easiest places are:
- Wrist (Radial Artery): Use the tips of your index and middle fingers to gently press on the inside of your wrist, below the base of your thumb. Mayo Clinic and Mount Sinai recommend this location.
- Neck (Carotid Artery): Gently press on the side of your neck, just below your jawbone. Avoid pressing too hard.
How to Check Your Pulse
- Locate your pulse: Use the tips of your index and middle fingers (avoid using your thumb, as you may feel your own pulse) to gently press on either your wrist or neck. Avoid using excessive pressure.
- Count the beats: Count the number of beats you feel for 15 seconds.
- Calculate your heart rate: Multiply the number of beats counted in 15 seconds by four to get your heart rate in beats per minute (BPM). Harvard Health recommends this method. Alternatively, you can count for a full 60 seconds for a more precise measurement.
Normal Heart Rate: A normal resting heart rate for adults is generally between 60 and 100 beats per minute. NHS provides this information. However, individual heart rates can vary.
Important Note: If you have any concerns about your heart rate or pulse, consult a healthcare professional.
