What does the term "systolic" refer to in blood pressure measurements?

The term "systolic" refers to the pressure in the arteries during heart contraction. When the heart contracts, it pumps blood into the arteries, and this results in a surge of pressure within the arterial system. This peak pressure is what is measured and referred to as the systolic blood pressure. It is the first number recorded in a blood pressure measurement and serves as an important indicator of cardiovascular health.

Understanding systolic pressure is crucial because it reflects how well the heart is functioning and how forcefully blood is being pumped throughout the body. Elevated systolic pressure can indicate issues such as hypertension or increased workload on the heart. Therefore, accurately recognizing the definition and implications of systolic pressure is vital for monitoring an individual’s heart health and overall fitness level.