CAUTION! Don't Check Carotid Pulse While Exercising!

Are you aware of the dangers of checking the carotid pulse while or after exercising? If not, here are some "eye" opening facts on the subject.

The carotid arteries are located on each side of the neck, which make them appear to be readily accessible and easily felt for pulse taking. However, it is well known that pressure on the carotids can trigger a reflex slowing of the heart and can lead to some serious heart rhythm disburbances, and, in some cases, blindness. This pressure can also dislodge a piece of fatty buildup that is carried to the smaller-arteries of the head and brain where it can obstruct blood flow..

To bring this home, ISPB would like to report on a case in Dr. Paul Donohue's recent syndicated column. A person was riding his exercise bike and in checking his pulse byfeeling his left carotid artery went completely and permanently blind in his left eye.

Think twice when you start to check your carotid pulse!!!! The best place to check your pulse is at the wrist, with the hand turned palm side up. The pulse can be felt on the thumb side. Also, an alternative pulse to take would be by placing your hand over your heart and counting each heart beat. "Heartbeat and pulse are the same thing" (Source: Paul G. Donohue, M.D.).

The Visionary, published as a service of the Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness,
is available upon request. The information contained in this issue,
taken from sources considered to be accurate,
does not replace the need for professional eye care consultations and treatments.

[top]