What is the systolic pressure?

Systolic pressure is defined as the highest pressure in the arteries during heart contraction, specifically when the heart's ventricles pump blood out into the aorta and the rest of the body. This phase of the cardiac cycle is known as systole. During this time, the force of the blood against the artery walls reaches its peak, making it a critical measure in diagnosing and monitoring cardiovascular health.

Understanding systolic pressure is essential in assessing heart function and overall health, as it reflects how effectively the heart is pumping blood. Monitoring this pressure can provide insights into conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure), which can have significant health implications if not managed appropriately.