What is blood pressure?

Blood pressure is defined as the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. This force is crucial for the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system, as it drives blood throughout the body, ensuring that all tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients. Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is described using two values: systolic pressure, which is the pressure during heartbeats, and diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

The measurement of blood pressure reflects the overall health of the cardiovascular system and can indicate the presence of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure). Changes in blood pressure can have significant implications for health, affecting organs and tissues and the efficiency of circulation.

Understanding this concept is essential for comprehending how the cardiovascular system operates and responds to various physiological demands and stressors.