Pulse deficit refers to a condition in which the heart beats more rapidly than the pulse rate that is felt at the peripheral pulse points. In other words, it is the difference between the heart rate (determined by listening to the heartbeat using a stethoscope) and the pulse rate (determined by palpating a peripheral artery, such as the radial artery in the wrist).
Pulse deficit can be an indication of a problem with the heart's ability to pump blood effectively or with the transmission of electrical impulses through the heart. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including atrial fibrillation, heart valve disease, heart attack, and other types of heart disease. If pulse deficit is suspected, further testing and evaluation may be necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
