Stress and Hypertension: An Overview
If a person is diagnosed with
hypertension, it doesn't mean that he or she is "too stressed," "too nervous," overanxious, or obsessive. This is a popular myth. Hypertension is not nervous tension or being overstressed. In fact, a lot of people who are perfectly calm have hypertension.
What's the Relationship Between Stress and Hypertension?
Hypertension research scientists are unsure at this point about the possible effects of long-term stress on hypertension. They believe that long-term stress can contribute to hypertension, but they are not sure how much of an impact it may actually have. In the case of short-term stressful situations, they know that stress can make
blood pressure go up for a while. But once the stress is relieved, the
blood pressure readings returns to "normal."
Stress and Hypertension: Recommendations
While stress management techniques do not seem to prevent hypertension, such techniques may have other benefits, such as:
- Making you feel better
- Reducing the need for alcohol or cigarettes
- Helping you to control overeating.
If stress is a major factor in your life, something as simple as spending a small amount of time relaxing every day, even at work, may help you manage stress better. Other activities that may help relieve stress include:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Getting a massage.
Finding the time to relax and do the things you enjoy may help you cope with stress and hypertension.
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