Your pulse rate is directly tied to your current heart rate, according to the National Emergency Medicine Association. For example, when your heart rate increases the rate of your pulse also increases. Pulse locations on your body include just below your jaw line, the inside of either wrist and on the inner thigh. Be sure to speak to your doctor to learn more about pulse and heart rates.
Definition
According to the National Emergency Medical Association, heart rate describes the number of times your heart beats per minute. Your pulse rate matches that rate and can be used to measure the number of heart beats accurately. Pulses occur as a result of blood pushed through major arteries in your body such as the carotid in the neck. A strong pulse rate indicates heart functionality and strength.
Measurement
You can calculate your pulse or heart rate by using a simple measurement technique. With the palm side of your hand facing up, place the middle and index fingers of your opposite hand approximately 1 inch below the base of your palm. Press down slightly to feel your pulse. Count the number of beats you feel for 10 seconds. Multiply your resulting number by six in order to calculate the beats per minute.
Considerations
Pulse rate levels may differ from one person to the next based on health, physical activity and age according to the National Emergency Medical Association. For example, a normal standing pulse or heart rate for most people is between 60 to 90 beats per minute. Athletic individuals who partake in high levels of physical activity on a regular basis may see rates between 40 to 60 beats per minute. This change in rate is a direct reflection of heart strength and its ability to push blood through the body.
Misconceptions
It is entirely possible that you will not have the same normal standing pulse or heart rate as another person. According to the National Institute of Health, age is a major determining factor of a normal pulse rate. For example, infants typically have heart rates between 100 to 160 beats per minute, while seniors are more likely to see rates between 60 to 120 beats per minute.
Precautions
Serious medical conditions may be identified by your pulse rate. For example the National Institute of Health suggests that a racing pulse rate may indicate heart disease or arthrosclerosis, otherwise known as hardening of the arteries. A lower-than-normal pulse rate may indicate your heart is struggling to pump blood through your body. If you experience a fluctuation in pulse rate without a known cause be sure to seek medical attention immediately.
