3. It is one of the points to determine pulse pressure.
4. Pulse pressure measures the actual driving force, the kinetic energy of the heart.
5. It enables us to judge of the volume output, for pulse pressure which is only determined by measuring both systolic and diastolic pressure, is such an index.
6. It is more stable than the systolic pressure, subject to fewer more or less unknown influences.
7. It is increased by exercise.
8. It is increased by conditions which increase peripheral resistance.
9. The gradual increase of diastolic pressure means harder work for the heart to supply the parts of the body with blood.
10. Increased diastolic pressure is always accompanied by increased pulse pressure, and increased size of the left ventricle, temporarily (exercise) or permanently.
11. Decreased diastolic pressure goes hand in hand with vasomotor relaxation, as in fevers, etc.
12. Low diastolic pressure is frequently pathognomonic of aortic insufficiency.