Systolic pressure

Definition

Systolic pressure is the maximum pressure exerted on the walls of arteries during the contraction phase of the heart's cycle. It is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Systolic pressure represents the peak arterial pressure during ventricular systole.
2. It is one component of blood pressure readings, with normal values generally being below 120 mmHg.
3. Systolic pressure can be influenced by factors such as cardiac output and arterial stiffness.
4. High systolic pressure (hypertension) increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases.
5. It is measured using a sphygmomanometer and recorded as the first number in a blood pressure reading.

Review Questions

• What does systolic pressure measure?
• How does systolic pressure relate to ventricular systole?
• Why is high systolic pressure considered a health risk?

Related terms

Diastolic Pressure: The minimum arterial pressure during relaxation and dilation of the ventricles when they fill with blood.

Hypertension: A condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated, often defined by a systolic pressure above 130 mmHg or diastolic pressure above 80 mmHg.

Cardiac Output: $$\text{The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, calculated as stroke volume multiplied by heart rate.}$$