What does blood pressure measure in the human body?

Blood pressure specifically measures the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels, primarily arteries. This measurement is crucial because it indicates how hard the heart and blood vessels are working to circulate blood throughout the body. Blood pressure is expressed as two values: systolic pressure, which occurs when the heart beats and pumps blood, and diastolic pressure, which occurs when the heart is at rest between beats.

This understanding is fundamental in assessing cardiovascular health, identifying conditions like hypertension, and evaluating the efficacy of medications or lifestyle adjustments aimed at improving heart health. The pressure within the arteries impacts various bodily functions, making it a significant health metric for both individuals and healthcare professionals.