How does chronic stress affect blood pressure?

Chronic stress can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure due to its impact on various physiological and behavioral responses in the body. When a person experiences prolonged stress, the body's stress response activates, leading to the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare the body for a "fight or flight" reaction, which includes increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels, both of which can raise blood pressure.

Additionally, chronic stress may lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as poor diet or lack of exercise, which further exacerbate hypertension. Over time, these responses can lead to sustained high blood pressure, making the management of stress an important aspect of overall health and potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the relationship between chronic stress and blood pressure highlights why managing stress is critical for those at risk of hypertension.