What does pulse pressure represent?

Pulse pressure specifically refers to the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Systolic pressure is the peak pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood, while diastolic pressure is the lowest pressure in the arteries during the heart's resting phase between beats. By subtracting the diastolic pressure from the systolic pressure, pulse pressure provides insight into the health of the cardiovascular system.

A normal pulse pressure typically fluctuates between 40 to 60 mmHg in healthy individuals and can indicate various cardiovascular conditions. For example, a narrow pulse pressure may suggest a weakened heart or severe blood loss, while an elevated pulse pressure might indicate stiff arteries or other cardiovascular issues. Thus, understanding pulse pressure is crucial for assessing overall heart health and diagnosing potential problems.