What is systolic pressure?

Systolic pressure refers specifically to the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, pumping blood out into the circulatory system. During the contraction phase of the cardiac cycle, known as systole, the ventricles of the heart push blood into the aorta and other arteries, leading to an increase in arterial pressure. This measurement is critical because it reflects the maximum level of pressure exerted on the artery walls during this phase, which is an essential indicator of cardiovascular health.

Understanding systolic pressure is fundamental in assessing blood pressure readings, which are typically presented as two numbers (systolic over diastolic). The systolic value provides insights into how well the heart is performing its function of pumping blood effectively. Regular monitoring of systolic pressure can help in identifying conditions such as hypertension, which can lead to serious cardiovascular complications.