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Pulsus paradoxus
System: Heart & Circulation Signs · All heart & circulation signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
An exaggerated fall in systolic blood pressure (more than about 10 mmHg) as the patient breathes in, felt as a weakening pulse with each breath in.
What a positive finding suggests
Associated with cardiac tamponade, and also with severe asthma attacks.
Related signs — Heart & Circulation Signs
Browse the P section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.
Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.