Stress can cause your blood pressure to rise within minutes, but its effects may extend far beyond the moment. Experts say prolonged stress can gradually increase the risk of high blood pressure and other serious health problems, reports Prevention.
Stress raises blood pressure
When you're under stress, your body responds by increasing both your heart rate and blood pressure.
Your nervous system goes into alert mode
Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which controls many automatic functions throughout the body.
Cortisol plays a key role
The body releases the stress hormone cortisol as part of its natural fight or flight response, contributing to the rise in blood pressure.
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Home devices may detect the change
People who monitor their blood pressure with a home monitor or smartwatch may notice higher readings during stressful periods.
The effects can last beyond the moment
Research found that people with higher levels of stress hormones were more likely to develop high blood pressure over the following six to seven years.
Higher cortisol was linked to greater risk
Participants with elevated cortisol levels in their urine had a 90 percent higher risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event within 11 years.
Stress can lead to unhealthy habits
Stress is also associated with behaviors that may further increase blood pressure, including unhealthy eating, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and drinking more alcohol than usual.
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Chronic stress can affect blood vessels
Long term stress increases inflammation in the body, making blood vessels stiffer and less able to relax.
Blood pressure may gradually increase
As blood vessels lose their flexibility over time, blood pressure can slowly continue to rise.
Several organs may be affected
Persistently high blood pressure can eventually damage the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.
Managing stress may help
Practices such as meditation, yoga, mindfulness, and breathing exercises may help lower blood pressure, although they may not completely resolve high blood pressure.
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Regular checkups are important
High blood pressure often causes no symptoms, making routine health checks and discussions with a healthcare provider especially important, particularly for people with a family history of the condition.
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