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Neck pulse
Neck pulse

Pulse - weak or absent
Definition:
Difficulty in feeling a pulse or an inability to detect a pulse at all. See also the information on CPR for more information about first-aid procedures.

Alternative Names:
Weak pulse; Absent pulse

Considerations:
An absent or weak pulse may be localized (affecting one limb) or systemic (affecting the whole body).

The absence of a pulse as determined by a lay person may not indicate disease. Sometimes the process of feeling the pulse (such as in the wrist) will diminish or obliterate a superficial pulse.
Common Causes:
  • improper technique used to feel for the pulse
  • normally weak pulse that is difficult to measure without proper instruments
  • shock
  • cardiac arrest (lack of an effective heartbeat)
Home Care:
Follow the treatment prescribed by your health care provider. CPR may be necessary!
Call your health care provider if:
  • There is any sudden, severe, or persistent decrease in the pulse quality or rate, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms.
  • Shock is suspected. This can be life-threatening; take emergency measures now!
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
Your medical provider will obtain a medical history and do a physical exam. Questions documenting weak or absent pulse in detail may include:
  • quality
    • Is the pulse weak?
    • Is it absent?
  • location
    • Is the pulse weak or absent in only one location?
    • Is a major pulse weak or absent (for example, when checking the carotid pulse in the neck)?
  • other
    • What other symptoms are also present?
Physical examination may include monitoring of the vital signs (pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure). Emergency measures will be taken as necessary. Continued monitoring may be necessary.

Diagnostic tests may include: After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to a weak or absent pulse to your personal medical record.
Review Date: 11/20/2001
Reviewed By: Donna R. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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