What lifestyle factor can cause temporary increases in blood pressure during doctor visits?

Anxiety or stress from evaluations is a well-documented factor that can lead to temporary increases in blood pressure during medical visits, often referred to as "white coat syndrome." This phenomenon occurs when patients feel nervous or anxious in the clinical setting, which can activate the body's stress response. As a result, hormones like adrenaline are released, leading to a temporary rise in heart rate and blood pressure. This response results from a natural reaction to perceived threats or stressors, even when the visit is routine and the individual is otherwise healthy.

Other lifestyle factors, such as dietary choices, lack of exercise, and sleep deprivation, can affect baseline blood pressure over time, contributing to chronic hypertension. However, they do not typically cause the immediate spikes in blood pressure that are specifically associated with the stress of being evaluated by healthcare professionals. Therefore, the most relevant answer for temporary increases in blood pressure during doctor visits is rooted in the emotional and psychological responses patients may experience in that environment.