Causes Of Weak Heart Pulse And What You Should Know

When people talk about a weak heart pulse, they are usually referring to the pulse in the radial artery located in the wrist. A weak pulse can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding these causes is essential for determining whether medical attention is needed.

Common Reasons For A Weak Pulse

1. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

One of the most common causes of a weak or irregular pulse is atrial fibrillation. This condition affects the heart's rhythm, leading to inconsistent and uneven pulses. In AFib, the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly, which can result in a pulse that feels weak or erratic when checked at the wrist.

2. Physiological Factors

In some cases, a weak pulse is simply due to natural body characteristics. For example, some individuals are born with naturally weaker pulses. This is especially common in women with a higher body mass index (BMI), where the radial artery may be deeper and narrower, making the pulse more difficult to detect. This type of weak pulse is typically not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.

3. Peripheral Arterial Disease

Another significant cause of a weak pulse is peripheral arterial disease (PAD), particularly in the upper limbs. Conditions such as arm artery hardening, blockage of the subclavian artery, or occlusion of the upper limb arteries can all lead to a noticeable decrease in pulse strength — and in severe cases, the pulse may not be felt at all.

What Pulse Differences Between Arms Mean

If you check both wrists and notice that the pulse on one side — typically the right — is significantly weaker or absent while the other side feels normal, it could be a sign of arterial occlusion or atherosclerosis. This discrepancy warrants further medical investigation to determine if there is a blockage or narrowing in the arteries supplying that limb.

When To Seek Medical Attention

If both pulses feel consistently weak but are still present and regular, it may not be an urgent issue. However, if the pulse is not only weak but also irregular or inconsistent in strength, it's important to consider atrial fibrillation as a possible cause. In such cases, a healthcare provider may recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG) or other diagnostic tests to assess heart function and rule out serious conditions.