What does the diastolic pressure measure in a blood pressure reading?

The diastolic pressure specifically measures the blood pressure in the arteries when the heart is in a resting phase between beats. This is the period when the heart muscle relaxes, allowing the chambers of the heart to fill with blood. In this state, the pressure in the arteries is at its lowest point, indicating how much pressure is exerted on the artery walls when the heart is not actively pumping blood. Understanding this measurement is essential for evaluating cardiovascular health, as it helps to assess overall blood pressure and heart function.

The other options do not accurately describe diastolic pressure. For example, the pressure during heartbeats relates to systolic pressure, which represents the peak level of pressure during heart contraction. Maximum pressure in the arteries defines systolic pressure as well, and average pressure would generally refer to an overall assessment rather than a specific moment in the heart's cycle.