A pulse of 84 beats per minute is generally normal, but it is not judged by its frequency alone, but also by its rhythm. Generally, the pulse and heart rate are equal, but for some patients the pulse is less than the heart rate, called pulse dystocia. Pulses that show significant rhythmic irregularities often occur in patients with atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation can be seen in all types of organic heart disease, in patients with hyperthyroidism, and in the elderly with degenerative changes. In patients with atrial fibrillation, a pulse of 84 beats/min is an abnormal condition with a fair ventricular rate but abnormal nodal rate. A comprehensive judgment of whether the pulse is normal needs to be made based on its rhythm as well as its frequency.