What does diastolic pressure indicate?

Diastolic pressure indicates the pressure in the arteries during the relaxation phase of the heart cycle, specifically when the heart's ventricles are filling with blood. This measurement reflects the lowest level of blood pressure in the arteries and is essential for understanding cardiovascular health.

When the heart relaxes, the chambers of the heart allow blood to flow in from the body and lungs, and this is when the blood pressure is at its lowest. Monitoring diastolic pressure is crucial as it provides insights into the resistance the heart must work against when it is not actively pumping, which can inform healthcare professionals about a person's vascular health and cardiovascular risk.

The other provided options do not accurately describe diastolic pressure. For example, the pressure during heart contraction refers to systolic pressure, which is the maximum pressure exerted during heartbeats. Understanding these different phases is vital for interpreting blood pressure readings effectively.