Pulse Pressure

by Dr. Stephen Sinatra

Filed Under: Heart Health, Blood Pressure, Q&As

Last Reviewed 03/25/2013

Pulse Pressure

There is usually a huge difference between my diastolic and systolic pressure (for example: 140/62). What could be the reason for this wide gap?

There is a phenomenon called the "pulse pressure" that can be a hallmark of aortic regurgitation (AR). For instance, an ideal mean blood pressure of 120/80 has a gap or pulse pressure of 40 mm/Hg. So, at 140/62, your differential is about 80, which is borderline.

Have your cardiologist listen to your heart. AR is not always heard on auscultation, so you can also request an echocardiogram to check your valve structures. I don't consider a wide pulse pressure to be indicative of coronary artery disease, but it may reflect leakage of the aortic valve.

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Meet Dr. Sinatra

Dr. Stephen Sinatra is a highly respected and sought-after cardiologist and nutritionist with more than 30 years of clinical practice, research, and study. His integrative approach to heart health focuses on reducing inflammation in the body and maximizing the heart's ability to produce and use energy. More About Dr. Sinatra