Difference Between Heart Rate and Pulse Rate: Heart rate and pulse rate differ because heart rate measures the number of times the heart beats per minute, while pulse rate measures the number of times the blood pressure wave is generated per minute.
Each heartbeat propels blood through the body, causing changes in blood pressure and generating a pulse in the main arteries. In a healthy individual, the heart rate and pulse are typically synchronized. However, individuals with heart conditions may experience difficulty effectively pumping blood with each contraction, leading to a lower pulse than the heart rate. Various factors, such as obesity, alcohol consumption, medication, smoking, and body mass, can influence both heart rate and blood pressure. In many cases, the pulse serves as an effective means to ascertain heart rate. It is, therefore, essential to understand the key difference between heart rate and pulse rate.NEET Biology Syllabus | NEET Biology Diagrams |
NEET Biology MCQ | NEET Biology Chapter wise Weightage |
NEET Biology Notes | NEET Previous Year Question Papers |
A pulse rate is the number of heartbeats per minute, with the average adult's resting pulse rate ranging from 60 to 80 beats per minute. Heart rate, on the other hand, refers to the rate at which the heart beats. Although heart rate and pulse are related, they are distinct concepts. Heart rate is the rate at which the heart beats at any given moment, whereas pulse is the sensation of the heart rate. The heart sends blood through the body's artery network when it contracts. The pulse is the brief increase in artery pressure caused by the heart ejecting more blood to maintain circulation. The heart relaxes between beats, causing the pressure to fall. This rhythmic pattern produces the sensation of individual heartbeats rather than a steady flow of pressure, similar to the pulsating force of water through a hose. Arteries are located close to the skin at various points on the body, with some areas being more palpable than others depending on individual body characteristics. Certain areas are more accessible for taking a pulse by oneself or a healthcare professional. The difference between heart rate and pulse rate is explained further below.
Difference Between Heart Rate and Pulse Rate |
||
---|---|---|
Feature | Heart Rate | Pulse Rate |
Definition | The number of heartbeats per minute. | The number of times arteries expand and contract with each heartbeat. |
Measurement | Directly measured from the heart using an electrocardiogram (ECG) or stethoscope. | Indirectly measured by feeling blood pulsation in arteries, typically at the wrist, neck, or temple. |
Location of Measurement | Heart | Arteries throughout the body, but most commonly felt at the wrist, neck, or temple. |
Accuracy | It is more accurate to measure the heart's electrical activity directly. | It is less accurate, as factors like applied pressure and pulse strength can influence it. |
Relationship | Usually the same as the heart rate, but can differ in certain conditions, such as when the heart is not pumping effectively. | Always reflects the heart rate, but may be slightly delayed due to the time it takes for the pressure wave to travel from the heart to the arteries. |
Normal Range for Adults | 60-100 beats per minute (bpm) at rest | 60-100 beats per minute at rest |
Physics Wallah provides the NEET Online Coaching and aims to provide the best possible preparation for the prestigious and challenging NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) medical exam. The NEET online coaching aims to provide students with highly experienced and knowledgeable teachers who specialize in the subjects required for the NEET exam , namely physics, chemistry, and biology.