Foundation Knowledge

Rapid Pulse

A rapid pulse most often suggests heat, but it can also occur in deficiency heat from Yin deficiency.

Foundation

Structured knowledge card

pulse
Definition

A rapid pulse beats faster than normal and is one of the classic indicators of heat.

Clinical Meaning

It often suggests excess heat, but can also indicate deficiency heat when paired with Yin-deficiency signs.

Pitfall / Exam Tip

If the pulse is rapid together with a red tongue and thick yellow coating, think excess heat. If it appears with scant coating and thin pulse, think deficiency heat.