Is arterial blood pressure higher than capillary pressure?

• A. False
• B. Not applicable
• C. True
• D. Cannot determine

Answer: (C)

Arterial blood pressure is higher than capillary pressure. The heart generates high pressure to push blood through the arteries, with systemic arterial pressures around 120/80 mmHg. By the time blood reaches the capillaries, the pressure has dropped to a much lower level, typically about 25–35 mmHg, which allows efficient exchange of nutrients, gases, and wastes without damaging the capillary walls. This large pressure drop occurs mainly across the arterioles due to resistance in the vascular bed. Maintaining a lower capillary pressure is also important because it helps limit excessive filtration into the interstitial space, with the lymphatic system responsible for reclaiming any excess fluid.