Updated June 10, 2015.

Description: the patient notices an area in or on the body where an unusual or a vigorous pulsation can be seen or felt.

Some causes related to cardiovascular disease: Abnormal pulsations can be related to vascular disease, such as an aneurysm (an abnormal dilation or "ballooning" of an artery). Abnormal pulsations in the abdomen, in particular, are often indicative of an aortic aneurysm. A "bounding" pulse can also be felt in patients who have aortic insufficiency (a "leaky" aortic valve.)

Some causes related to other disorders: Any condition that leads to particularly vigorous pumping of the heart can create an unusual awareness of the pulse. Such conditions include anemia, thyroid disease, hypertension, anxiety, or other medical problems.

Significance: A persistent abnormal pulsation can indicate significant medical disease, and should be reported to a doctor.