What does the diastolic measurement in a blood pressure reading indicate?

• A. The pressure when the heart is contracting
• B. The pressure on the artery walls when the heart is at rest
• C. The average pressure throughout the cardiac cycle
• D. The highest pressure in the arteries

Answer: (B)

The diastolic measurement in a blood pressure reading represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. During this phase, the heart muscle is relaxed, allowing the chambers of the heart to fill with blood. This resting pressure is crucial because it reflects the minimum pressure exerted on the arterial walls, which is important for understanding the resistance the heart faces when it pumps blood.

Monitoring diastolic pressure is vital for assessing cardiovascular health, as it can indicate how well the arteries are functioning and whether there is any potential threat of hypertension when the heart is not actively contracting. High diastolic pressure may suggest increased resistance in the arteries or factors like stress, lifestyle choices, or underlying health conditions. Understanding this parameter helps healthcare professionals gauge the overall blood pressure regulation and the performance of the cardiovascular system.