Systolic blood pressure

Systolic Blood Pressure is the highest pressure in the arteries during the course of the cardiac cycle. It is the first or top number in a blood pressure reading, and it is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

Overview

Systolic blood pressure is the pressure exerted on the walls of the arteries when the heart contracts. It is the maximum pressure in the arteries during one heart beat. The systolic pressure is always stated first in a blood pressure reading, before the diastolic blood pressure. For example, in a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg, 120 is the systolic pressure.

Measurement

Systolic blood pressure is measured using a device called a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm and a pressure-measuring gauge. The cuff is inflated to constrict the arteries, and then slowly deflated while the person taking the measurement listens with a stethoscope to the blood flow in the brachial artery.

Normal and Abnormal Values

A normal systolic blood pressure is less than 120 mmHg. A reading of 120-129 mmHg is considered elevated, and a reading of 130 mmHg or higher is considered high. High systolic blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

Treatment

Treatment for high systolic blood pressure may include lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and medication. Medications used to treat high blood pressure include diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

See Also

• Blood pressure
• Diastolic blood pressure
• Hypertension
• Hypotension

Systolic blood pressure Resources
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