What is the Difference Between Systolic and Diastolic Pressure?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The difference between systolic and diastolic pressure lies in the stages of the heart's contraction cycle that they represent. Systolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and it measures the force of blood against the artery walls while the ventricles, the lower two chambers of the heart, push blood out to the rest of the body. On the other hand, diastolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats, and it measures the force of blood against the artery walls as the heart relaxes and the ventricles refill with blood. In a blood pressure reading, systolic pressure is the top number, and diastolic pressure is the bottom number. Both numbers are essential for monitoring heart health, but research has shown that systolic pressure is more closely related to the risk of stroke and heart disease, especially in people aged 50 and older.
Comparative Table: Systolic vs Diastolic Pressure
The difference between systolic and diastolic pressure is related to the heart's contraction and relaxation during the cardiac cycle. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences:
| Characteristic | Systolic Pressure | Diastolic Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Systolic pressure is the maximum pressure exerted on the walls of arteries when the heart contracts. | Diastolic pressure is the minimum pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats and refills with blood. |
| Normal Range | 90-120 mmHg (adults), 95 mmHg (infants), 100 mmHg (6 to 9 years) | 60-80 mmHg (adults), 65 mmHg (infants), 65 mmHg (6 to 9 years) |
| Importance | Systolic pressure is generally considered the more significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. | Diastolic pressure is also important, but it is typically given less attention compared to systolic pressure. |
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers, with systolic pressure being the first number and diastolic pressure being the second number (e.g., 120/80 mmHg). A normal blood pressure for adults is defined as a systolic pressure below 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mmHg.
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