Systolic blood pressure measures the force in arteries when the heart beats, while diastolic measures it when the heart rests between beats. The difference, known as pulse pressure, typically ranges from 30-50 mmHg in healthy adults and reflects arterial stiffness or heart function.

Systolic is the top number (e.g., 120 in 120/80 mmHg), indicating peak pressure during heart contraction. Diastolic is the bottom number (e.g., 80), showing minimum pressure during relaxation.

Clinical Importance:
Systolic pressure is often more critical, especially in people over 50, as it better predicts risks like stroke and heart disease due to arterial strain. Elevated diastolic matters more in younger adults under 50, signaling potential vascular issues even if systolic is normal.

Systolic blood pressure becomes a critical parameter for starting therapy when it consistently exceeds established hypertension thresholds, typically prompting intervention to reduce cardiovascular risks. Guidelines vary by patient age, risk factors, and organization, but action often begins at levels above 130-140 mmHg.
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