Understanding the Superficial Temporal Artery
The superficial temporal artery is a branch of the external carotid artery, one of the major blood vessels supplying blood to the head and neck. It travels up the side of the head, passing just in front of the ear, and then divides into frontal and parietal branches that supply blood to the scalp and face. Because of its superficial location, it can be easily felt or palpated on many individuals. This makes it a valuable pulse point for healthcare providers, especially during a comprehensive head and neck examination. However, the key to distinguishing a normal finding from a potential issue lies in its characteristics—is it simply pulsing, or is there also tenderness, thickening, or a change in prominence?
How to Palpate the Temporal Artery
To feel the superficial temporal artery, place one or two fingertips gently on the temple area, just in front of the ear. You should feel a rhythmic, tapping sensation that corresponds with your heartbeat. The pressure should be light, as pressing too hard can compress the artery and make it difficult to feel. Many people can also feel this pulse by resting their head on a pillow at night. It's a natural part of your body's circulation and no cause for alarm on its own. The artery is typically not visible, and a prominent or visibly bulging vessel may warrant further investigation.
When is a Palpable Temporal Artery Abnormal?
While a palpable pulse is normal, certain signs can indicate a potential problem. If the artery feels thickened, tender, or hard like a rope, it could be a sign of temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis (GCA). GCA is an inflammation of medium-to-large arteries, including the temporal arteries, that most commonly affects individuals over the age of 50. If you experience a new type of headache, jaw pain when chewing, or visual disturbances, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as untreated GCA can lead to blindness. Conversely, in some severe cases of temporal arteritis, the inflammation may be so extensive that it restricts blood flow to the point where the pulse is actually reduced or absent entirely.
Distinguishing the Temporal Artery vs. Temporal Vein
It is also important to differentiate between the temporal artery and temporal veins, which are also located in the temple region. The temporal artery carries oxygenated blood away from the heart, so you feel a rhythmic pulse corresponding to your heartbeats. Temporal veins, on the other hand, carry deoxygenated blood back toward the heart and do not have a pulse. The Whiteley Clinic provides a useful guide on this distinction, noting that veins often appear blue or green and run in a different direction than the colorless, pulsating artery. Veins in this area can also become prominent, but they do not have a pulse. For more on the distinction between the anatomy of the superficial temporal artery and vein, you can visit PubMed for a detailed study on their architecture.
Comparison of Normal vs. Abnormal Temporal Artery Characteristics
| Characteristic | Normal Temporal Artery | Abnormal Temporal Artery (e.g., Temporal Arteritis) |
|---|---|---|
| Palpation | Gentle pressure reveals a normal, rhythmic pulse. | May be tender to the touch, thickened, hard, or rope-like. |
| Appearance | Not typically visible or prominent. | May appear prominent, bulging, or tortuous. |
| Pulse Quality | Strong and consistent. | Pulse may be diminished, uneven, or absent in severe cases. |
| Associated Symptoms | No pain or discomfort upon palpation. | Often accompanied by a new, persistent headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, or fever. |
| Age Group | Any age. | Most common in adults over 50. |
Other Causes of Temporal Artery Sensitivity
Besides temporal arteritis, other conditions can cause increased awareness or sensitivity in the temporal artery area. People with anxiety or certain heart conditions might be more aware of their pulse throughout their body, including the temporal region. In rare instances, a malformation in the blood vessel could cause unusual pulsations. Additionally, common issues like high blood pressure or anemia can cause the heart to pump extra blood with each beat, leading to a more noticeable pulse. For most people, a simple pulsing sensation is benign, but any accompanying symptoms like severe headache, jaw pain, or vision changes should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider.
Conclusion: When to Seek Medical Advice
In conclusion, feeling the pulse of your temporal artery is a normal physiological occurrence due to its superficial location. The distinction between a normal, healthy pulse and a potential medical concern rests on other signs and symptoms. A tender, thickened, or unusually prominent artery, especially when accompanied by a new headache, jaw pain, or changes in vision, should be evaluated by a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of conditions like temporal arteritis are critical to prevent serious complications. For the majority, however, the gentle tapping felt at the temple is just a reminder of the healthy, rhythmic flow of life within.
