In today’s times, people have become more health-conscious than ever. Some are counting steps with smartwatches, others are monitoring their blood pressure and sleep. However, a simple and time-tested method related to heart health that most people still overlook is checking their pulse. Let us explain why this is important.
Experts say that by checking your pulse in just 10 seconds, you can detect early signs of a heart problem that can persist for a long time without causing any symptoms. This information is especially important during World Heart Rhythm Week, which aims to raise awareness about heart rhythm-related diseases.
One of the most common heart rhythm problems is atrial fibrillation. In this condition, the upper chambers of the heart begin to beat irregularly, disrupting the heart’s normal rhythm. The problem is that many people do not experience any obvious symptoms. Some patients may experience palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue, but many feel completely normal.
According to the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, atrial fibrillation can sometimes exist without symptoms and is only detected during routine checkups. If it’s not treated promptly, it can increase the risk of stroke and other heart-related problems. According to Dr. Pradeep Jain, a simple pulse check can often provide an early indication of an irregular heartbeat.
He says, place your index and middle fingers on the inside of your wrist, below your thumb, and feel for a pulse for about 10 seconds. If the heartbeat is regular and at even intervals, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if the heartbeat feels too fast, too slow, or too irregular, it may be necessary to consult a doctor.
Experts also clarify that atrial fibrillation or any other condition cannot be confirmed by checking your pulse alone. It simply serves as an early warning sign, prompting timely medical attention. According to Dr. Pradeep Jain, conditions such as aging, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of irregular heartbeats. Given the rapidly increasing incidence of these problems in India, people should pay close attention to their heart rhythms.