Definition | Diastolic pressure – Diastolic pressure

The pressure diastolic as opposed to the systolic pressure, corresponds to the blood pressure measured during the relaxation phase of the heart, also called diastole.

Systole and diastole are two stages of the heart cycle. Systole is the contraction phase of the heart, when blood is pumped into the blood vessels. The diastole is the relaxation phase, which brings blood into the heart.

What is the limit value for diastolic pressure?

The measured diastolic pressure is done using a cuff that is passed around your arm, then gradually inflated and deflated. The swelling expresses pressure on the arteries. The diastolic pressure corresponds to the moment when the cuff has completely deflated and leaves room for normal blood circulation. In contrast, systolic blood pressure is when blood flows back into the artery, when the cuff is just beginning to loosen.

Both systolic and diastolic pressures are to be measured. When they are high, both present significant risks.

Diastolic pressure is given by the lowest value given during this blood pressure measurement. Abnormal diastolic pressure is greater than 90 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). We then speak ofhypertension.

What are the consequences of high diastolic pressure?

When the diastolic pressure exceeds the previously mentioned threshold, it ishypertension. Hypertension is the abnormal, long-term increase in blood pressure that circulates in the arteries. It is sometimes difficult to diagnose. Among its symptoms are:

  • Headache or dizziness

  • Shortness of breath

  • Ringing in the ear

  • Chest pain

  • Vision problems

Family history must also be taken into account: the risk increases by 30% for people whose parents have suffered from hypertension problems.

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