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Systolic and diastolic blood pressure
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Healthwise
Systolic blood pressure refers to the pressure of blood in the artery when the heart contracts. It is the top (and higher) number in a blood pressure reading.
Diastolic blood pressure refers to the pressure of blood in the artery when the heart relaxes between beats. It is the bottom (and lower) number in a blood pressure reading.
For example, if a person's systolic pressure is 120 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and the diastolic pressure is 80 mm Hg, blood pressure is recorded as 120/80 and read as "120 over 80."
Last Updated:
April 10, 2009- Author:
- Robin Parks, MS
- Medical Review:
- Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology
Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
