What is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure?

Systolic blood pressure refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart is actively contracting and pumping blood into the systemic circulation. This measurement occurs during the heartbeat, particularly when the ventricles contract, hence the name "systolic."

Diastolic blood pressure, on the other hand, is the measurement of pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. It reflects the pressure in the arteries when the heart is filling with blood in preparation for the next contraction.

Understanding the relationship between these two measurements is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. Together, they help in evaluating overall blood pressure and diagnosing potential health issues like hypertension or cardiovascular disease.