Diastolic blood pressure

Definition

Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats. It is the lower number in a blood pressure reading.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Normal diastolic blood pressure is typically between 60 and 80 mmHg.
2. Elevated diastolic pressure can indicate increased risk for cardiovascular events, including stroke and heart attack.
3. Diastolic hypertension is diagnosed when diastolic pressure consistently measures above 90 mmHg.
4. Antihypertensive drugs like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics are used to manage high diastolic blood pressure.
5. Low diastolic pressure (below 60 mmHg) can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and fainting due to inadequate perfusion of organs.

Review Questions

• What is considered a normal range for diastolic blood pressure?
• Name two types of antihypertensive drugs used to manage high diastolic blood pressure.
• Why might low diastolic blood pressure be a concern for patients?

Related terms

Systolic Blood Pressure:

The pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart muscle, represented by the higher number in a blood pressure reading.

Hypertension:

A condition where the force of the blood against artery walls is too high, often defined as persistently elevated systolic or diastolic pressures.

ACE Inhibitors:

A class of medications that relaxes veins and arteries to lower blood pressure by preventing an enzyme from producing angiotensin II.