Description: The term ‘systolic’ refers to the phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood into the arteries. During this phase, the ventricles of the heart contract, causing an increase in pressure inside them, allowing blood to flow into the circulatory system. This contraction is essential for the efficient functioning of the heart and for ensuring that the body’s organs and tissues receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients. Systolic pressure is a key indicator in blood pressure measurement, expressed as the upper number in a reading, for example, 120/80 mmHg. A normal systolic value is crucial for cardiovascular health, as abnormal levels can indicate issues such as hypertension or heart disease. The systolic phase is part of a broader cycle that includes diastole, where the heart relaxes and fills with blood. In summary, the term ‘systolic’ is fundamental to understanding the functioning of the cardiovascular system and the overall health of the organism.
Uses: The term ‘systolic’ is primarily used in the fields of medicine and cardiology to describe the contraction phase of the heart. It is fundamental in blood pressure measurement, where systolic pressure is recorded as an indicator of cardiovascular health. Additionally, it is used in echocardiography studies and in the assessment of heart diseases, allowing doctors to diagnose conditions such as heart failure or hypertension. It is also applied in the context of physiology to understand the functioning of the circulatory system and its relationship with other body systems.
Examples: A practical example of the use of the term ‘systolic’ is in blood pressure measurement, where a value of 130 mmHg would be considered the systolic pressure. Another example is found in echocardiography, where the systolic function of the left ventricle is assessed to determine the heart’s pumping efficiency. In clinical studies, one can observe how changes in systolic pressure may correlate with the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
