What are the two types of blood pressure?

Blood pressure is measured in two distinct phases that correspond to how the heart functions during its beat cycle. The first type, systolic pressure, is the pressure in the arteries when the heart muscles contract and pump blood out. This measurement reflects the peak pressure that occurs during a heartbeat. The second type, diastolic pressure, is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats, providing an indication of the minimum pressure in the arteries.

Understanding the difference between systolic and diastolic pressures is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. Together, these two measurements provide a comprehensive picture of blood pressure, which is vital for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. Other options, such as high and low, refer to blood pressure levels rather than its types; normal and abnormal describe the condition of blood pressure rather than its classifications; resting and active do not directly relate to the specific measurements of blood pressure.