What is diastole?

Diastole refers to the phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart muscle relaxes and the chambers of the heart fill with blood. During this period, the atria fill with blood returning from the body and lungs, while the ventricles also receive blood from the atria, preparing for the next contraction. This relaxation phase is crucial because it allows the heart to replenish its blood supply and ensures that there is enough volume of blood to be pumped out during the subsequent contraction, known as systole. Understanding diastole is essential for comprehending overall heart function and circulatory dynamics, as disruptions in this phase can lead to various cardiovascular problems.