falingspulsen

Falingspulsen is a clinical term describing a weak, thready peripheral pulse, indicating reduced cardiac output or impaired peripheral perfusion. It is typically assessed by palpation of arteries such as the radial, brachial, or carotid and is characterized by reduced amplitude, sometimes difficult to detect, and may be absent in more severe shock. The term is used in Norwegian medical language and corresponds to the general description of a weak or failing pulse.

Causes and pathophysiology include conditions that reduce effective blood flow or increase peripheral resistance. Common scenarios are hypovolemia from hemorrhage or dehydration, cardiogenic shock due to myocardial infarction or severe heart failure, and distributive or obstructive shock from sepsis, anaphylaxis, tamponade, tension pneumothorax, or pulmonary embolism. Reduced stroke volume, altered vascular tone, or a combination of these factors can produce a falingspulsen. Arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation can also diminish pulse quality.

Clinical features accompanying a falingspulsen often include low blood pressure, tachycardia, cool or clammy skin, delayed capillary refill, altered mental status, and reduced urine output. In advanced cases the radial pulse may be undetectable while the carotid pulse remains palpable, or both may be markedly weak.

Diagnosis and evaluation rely on vital signs, history, and physical examination, supplemented by diagnostic tests as needed. Cardiac monitoring, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and laboratory studies (such as hemoglobin and lactate) help identify the underlying cause and assess organ perfusion. In severe cases, arterial catheterization may provide continuous blood-pressure monitoring and direct pulse assessment.

Management aims to stabilize circulation and treat the underlying cause. This can involve fluid resuscitation when appropriate, vasopressor support, blood transfusion for hemorrhage, and definitive treatment of cardiac, infectious, or pulmonary etiologies. Early recognition of falingspulsen is important in emergency and critical care settings due to its association with shock and potential organ hypoperfusion.