Quick Lesson: What do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean?

Tom and I had our physicals recently, and as usual- whenever they tell me what my blood pressure numbers are, I always ask if it's good. So, here's a quick lesson in Blood Pressure readings!

WHAT'S THE BOTTOM NUMBER MEAN?: Diastolic The bottom number, which is also the lower of the two numbers, measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats (when the heart muscle is resting between beats and refilling with blood).

WHAT'S THE TOP NUMBER MEAN?:  Systolic

The top number, which is also the higher of the two numbers, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats (when the heart muscle contracts).    Which number is more important, top (systolic) or bottom (diastolic)?
Typically more attention is given to the top number (the systolic blood pressure) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50 years old. In most people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age due to increasing stiffness of large arteries, long-term build-up of plaque, and increased incidence of cardiac and vascular disease.
Here's a short video explaining just that!