Systolic Pressure

The rhythmic contractions and relaxation of the heart create high pressures required to keep the blood vessels from collapsing and also to ensure that all parts of the body get the supply of blood that is so vital to their survival and functioning. The pressure created during the ventricular systole is called the systolic pressure and is equal to that exerted by 120 mm column of Hg (mercury).

The pressure created by the relaxation is the diastolic pressure and measures 80mm of Hg. So, the normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 mm of Hg. However, the normal value also depends on the age, sex, physical stress, hereditary factors. The blood pressure can be taken with the help of a sphygmomanometer at the brachial artery just above the elbow.