What does the term systolic refer to in relation to blood pressure?

The term systolic refers to the highest value of blood pressure that occurs during heart contraction. This measurement reflects the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood out into the circulation. Systolic blood pressure is the first number recorded in a blood pressure reading and is crucial because it indicates how much pressure the blood exerts against artery walls at its peak.

Understanding this definition is important for assessing cardiovascular health; elevated systolic pressure can indicate potential heart issues. The distinction between systolic and diastolic pressure, where diastolic is the pressure during the heart's relaxation phase, allows healthcare professionals to evaluate overall heart and vascular function effectively.