Does anxiety directly affect a person with high blood pressure?

Can anxiety cause high blood pressure? Anxiety does not cause long-term high blood pressure (hypertension). However, episodes of anxiety can cause dramatic, temporary spikes in blood pressure. If these temporary spikes occur frequently, such as daily, they can cause damage to blood vessels, the heart and kidneys, similar to chronic hypertension. In addition, people who are anxious or stressed are more likely to engage in unhealthy habits that can raise blood pressure, such as:

Cigarette smoking
Drinking alcoholic beverages
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Some drugs used to treat anxiety and other psychiatric disorders can also raise blood pressure. These drugs include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). If you are having trouble controlling your anxiety, or if your anxiety is interfering with your daily activities, talk to a health care provider or mental health professional to find appropriate treatment. Blood pressure categories The five blood pressure ranges recognized by the American Heart Association are: Normal Blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal. If your results fall within this range, stick to heart-healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. Elevated Elevated blood pressure occurs when readings consistently fall within the range of 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. People with elevated blood pressure are at risk of developing hypertension unless they take steps to control the condition. Stage 1 hypertension Stage 1 hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure consistently fluctuates between 130-139 mm systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic. At this stage of hypertension, doctors are likely to recommend lifestyle changes and may consider adding blood pressure medication depending on the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), such as heart attack or stroke. Stadium 2 hypertension Stage 2 hypertension occurs when blood pressure is consistently 140/90 mm Hg or higher. At this stage of hypertension, doctors are likely to prescribe a combination of blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes. Hypertensive crisis This stage of hypertension requires medical attention. If your blood pressure suddenly exceeds 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and then check your blood pressure again. If the readings are still unusually high, contact your doctor immediately. This could be a hypertensive crisis. When should a doctor be called If your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg and you are experiencing signs of possible organ damage, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, changes in vision or difficulty speaking, don't wait for your blood pressure to drop on its own. Call 911. Other symptoms of low blood pressure?