How Do Arteries and Veins Differ in Blood Pressure Readings?

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Detailed Solution

Blood pressure in arteries and veins is fundamentally different, reflecting their roles in the circulatory system.

Arterial Blood Pressure:

High and Pulsatile: Arterial pressure is high and rhythmic, pulsing with each heartbeat.
Systolic/Diastolic Reading: This is what we measure as "blood pressure" (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).
- Systolic Pressure (the top number): The peak pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts (systole).
- Diastolic Pressure (the bottom number): The lowest pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats (diastole).

Venous Blood Pressure:

Very Low and Steady: Venous pressure is extremely low and does not pulse.
Continuous Decline: The pressure has dissipated as blood passed through the tiny capillaries. It starts at around 10-15 mmHg in the small venules and drops to near 0 mmHg by the time the blood re-enters the heart (at the right atrium).
Measurement: Venous pressure cannot be measured with a standard arm cuff; it requires more invasive methods (central venous pressure).

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