Which term describes the bottom number in a blood pressure reading?

The term that describes the bottom number in a blood pressure reading is diastolic. Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers, with the systolic pressure appearing first, indicating the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood. The diastolic pressure, on the other hand, represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. This measurement is important because it helps assess the overall health of the cardiovascular system, providing insight into how well the heart can handle stress and recover between contractions.

Understanding diastolic pressure is crucial in diagnosing conditions such as hypertension. Elevated diastolic readings can indicate increased resistance in the blood vessels, and managing these levels is important for reducing the risk of heart disease and other related health issues.