A pulsating neck is usually felt because you can feel your carotid arteries beating. These are major blood vessels carrying oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your brain. The pulse you feel is the surge of blood with each heartbeat.
Understanding the Carotid Pulse
The carotid arteries are located on either side of your neck, just below the angle of your jaw. Their location makes their pulse easily palpable. A strong, healthy heartbeat will create a noticeable pulse in these arteries.
- Location: Feel gently on either side of your neck, just below your jawline. You should feel a rhythmic pulsation.
- Cause: The pulsation is simply the forceful pumping of blood from your heart with each contraction.
- Normal: This is usually a perfectly normal and harmless sensation.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While a pulsating neck is often normal, it's important to know when to see a doctor. Contact your physician if:
- The pulsation is unusually strong or rapid.
- You experience dizziness, fainting, or chest pain alongside the pulsating neck.
- The pulsation is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or neck pain.
- You notice a sudden change in the pulsation.
These symptoms could indicate underlying health issues requiring medical attention.
