When a person's blood pressure readings are taken, it consists of two values − systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. When a person's systolic blood pressure readings are observed to have escalated to a level which is considered significantly higher than the levels which are considered normal, the condition is referred to as systolic hypertension. In certain cases of systolic hypertension, when the systolic blood pressure is seen to be above 140, while the diastolic blood pressure remains under 90, it is referred to as a case of 'isolated systolic hypertension'.

Systolic hypertension may occur as a side-effect of aging, resulting from the increasing inefficiency of the aorta of the heart. This prevents normal coronary blood flow, while putting a substantial amount of extra pressure on the ventricle. This may lead to various heart diseases, and may even cause heart failure.

Systolic hypertension can be treated through various methods, such as going on a special low-sodium diet (consisting largely of fruits, vegetables and whole grains), losing weight, engaging in physical activities and abstaining from consumption of alcohol. The aim of this is to lower the amount of harm such hypotension can do to the heart, the kidneys and the cerebrovascular system of the patient. Various types of medication can also be used for treatment of this condition.