Understanding Blood Pressure: Systolic & Diastolic Explained

There are two main types of blood pressure: systolic and diastolic.

Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood out to the body.

Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. High blood pressure is considered to be 140/90 mm Hg or higher.