When stress gets to you, your body undergoes rapid changes: heart rate escalates, muscles tense, and blood pressure surges. This persistent state of tension, if sustained over time, is strongly associated with the development of high blood pressure, medically known as hypertension. Consequently, managing stress becomes pivotal not only for immediate well-being but also for long-term cardiovascular health. There are two types of stress, chronic stress, and acute stress. These types of stress can lead to cardiovascular complications, and if not managed it may lead to other health issues such as kidney complications, heart disease, and stroke. Treating stress starts with lifestyle changes and medications. In more severe cases a doctor may prescribe beta-blockers to lower ones blood pressure and help with the symptoms of chronic stress.
Coping With Stress and High Blood Pressure
Verywell mind has listed some lifestyle changes you can make that will help you to manage stress.
- Eliminating stressors: You might not always be in a position to eliminate all stressors from your life. However, eliminating stressors, you have control over goes a long way in helping you manage your health. Removing stressors from your life is essential if you have high blood pressure. Being constantly exposed to stressful situations when you have high blood pressure can worsen your condition.
- Exercise regularly: The power of exercise in relation to maintaining a healthy lifestyle can’t be overemphasized. Exercising regularly can help reduce stress symptoms. Regular exercise is also essential for people with high blood pressure. Research shows that it can help manage symptoms of the condition.
- Adopt a healthier diet: The average person should adopt a healthy diet for optimum health. It’s even more critical for people who are stressed or have high blood pressure to maintain healthy diets. If you have high blood pressure, you should avoid foods high in salt and fat as these can cause your blood pressure to spike.
Both stress and high blood pressure can be effectively addressed through adopting healthier lifestyle choices. Engaging in regular exercise, reducing stressors, and adhering to a balanced diet have a positive impact on individuals managing either or both conditions. While medical treatment is essential for high blood pressure, incorporating these lifestyle adjustments has demonstrated a notable enhancement in symptoms and overall well-being.
Reference:https://www.behavioralhealthequityproject.org/2024/04/15/can-stress-cause-high-blood-pressure/
