What term refers to the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure?

The term that refers to the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure is pulse pressure. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart muscle, while diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. The pulse pressure is calculated by subtracting the diastolic value from the systolic value. This measurement reflects the force that the heart generates each time it contracts and is an important indicator of cardiovascular health. A normal pulse pressure typically ranges from 40 to 60 mmHg and can provide insights into heart function, vascular health, and arterial stiffness.

Understanding this concept is vital in health science, as it helps healthcare professionals assess patients' cardiovascular conditions and identify potential health issues.