The maximum pressure of contraction in the ventricles of the heart is called systolic blood pressure. This is the highest pressure that occurs during a heartbeat, specifically when the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood out of the left ventricle and into the aorta, the body`s largest artery.
Systolic blood pressure is an important measure of cardiovascular health and is usually measured using a sphygmomanometer, or blood pressure cuff. A reading of 120 mmHg or less is considered healthy, while a reading above 130 mmHg may indicate hypertension, or high blood pressure.
High systolic blood pressure can put extra strain on the heart and arteries over time, leading to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. It is important to maintain healthy blood pressure through lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing stress.
In addition to systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure is also measured during a blood pressure reading. This represents the lowest pressure that occurs in the arteries between heartbeats, when the heart is at rest and filling with blood.
Maintaining healthy blood pressure, both systolic and diastolic, is crucial for overall cardiovascular health and can help prevent serious health complications in the future. Regular visits with a healthcare provider and monitoring blood pressure levels at home can help individuals stay on top of their heart health and take necessary steps to prevent or manage hypertension.