What does blood pressure (BP) measure?

Blood pressure (BP) specifically measures the amount of force exerted against the walls of an artery by the flowing blood within it. This force results from the heart’s contraction as it pumps blood throughout the circulatory system. Blood pressure is typically expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded with two numbers: systolic pressure, which is the pressure during the heart’s contraction, and diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

Understanding BP as a measure of force is critical because it helps healthcare providers assess cardiovascular health, identify hypertension or other blood flow issues, and make informed decisions regarding treatment and lifestyle changes. This focus on the pressure exerted on arterial walls highlights the dynamics of blood flow and resistance in the circulatory system, making it a fundamental aspect of cardiovascular monitoring.