‘Thready Pulse’: When To Call 999 In A Heatwave

Phew – we’re not really getting much of a break from these heatwaves, are we? The Met Office recently announced the UK can expect temperatures of 34°C and above in the coming week.

Aside from being uncomfortable for many, heatwaves pose real risks, too. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recently said they “can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun”.

These risks include heat exhaustion and heatstroke. And on the Cleveland Clinic’s site, they say a “thready pulse” can be a sign that the hot weather has seriously affected you.

Here, we asked Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, to explain what the term means, how to spot it, and what to do if you notice the change.

“A thready pulse typically means a pulse that is very weak, faint or difficult to detect. It’s named this because it can make the pulse feel like a thin thread beneath the skin, rather than a regular beat,” Dr Grant said.

It may also be faster than usual, per The Cleveland Clinic.

“It can happen when the body is under serious strain, which is why some people may experience it as a sign of heatstroke.

“It should never be ignored, as it may indicate an individual is overheating or the body is unable to effectively circulate blood.”

“The easiest way to spot a thready pulse is to regularly check it. To do this, place two fingers on the wrist or neck and feel for the beat. If it’s hard to find, weaker than normal or seems to come and go, then it could be thready and may require medical intervention,” the GP explained.

In the case of heatstroke, though, he added this is “generally combined with other warning signs”, inlcuding:

• confusion,
• dizziness,
• extreme weakness,
• hot skin, and
• in extreme cases, collapsing or seizures.

All of this “highlights the importance of remaining hydrated,” Dr Grant continued.

“Drinking enough water, especially during the warmer months of the year, is crucial for replacing lost fluids and electrolytes. By doing so, people can help reduce their risk of dehydration and heat-related illness, and support the body’s ability to regulate temperature.”

“If someone notices a thready pulse, it’s important to act fast. It should be treated as a potential red flag, particularly if it’s combined with other worrying symptoms. If heatstroke is suspected, I recommend seeking urgent medical attention by calling 999,” said the GP.

“Removing excess clothing and slowly sipping water can help reduce body temperature. Overall, don’t wait to see if a weak pulse improves if the person looks seriously unwell; get urgent medical help.”