Why It Happens

Stress is one of the most common causes of sudden blood pressure spikes. When the body is in fight-or-flight mode, adrenaline and cortisol flood the system, tightening blood vessels and raising pressure.

Acute Stress Reactions: Work, relationships, or emergencies can immediately elevate blood pressure.

Chronic Stress: Ongoing tension from finances, caregiving, or burnout keeps cortisol high.

Shallow Breathing: Common during anxiety, it reduces oxygen flow and increases vascular tension.

Sleep Disruption: Stress often interferes with deep sleep, which normally lowers pressure.

Poor Coping Mechanisms: Excess caffeine, alcohol, or sugar can worsen BP response.

How to Manage

Use Breathwork Tools: Try box breathing or diaphragmatic exercises for 5 minutes a day.

Unplug Daily: Limit screen time, especially news or emails, before bed.

Move Your Body Gently: Walks or yoga ease nervous system pressure.

Cut Back on Stimulants: Avoid energy drinks or excess coffee when under stress.

Talk to Someone: Support from a friend, coach, or therapist makes a real impact.

Managing stress is key to long-term cardiovascular health — and your peace of mind.

Key Biomarkers

• Cortisol

Expert-Backed Reads

• The 7-Step Protocol to Conquer Stress: Insights from Andrew Huberman

• Understanding the "Stress Hormone" & Its Impact on Your Health

• 2 Silent Killers in Your Blood: How Mito Health Can Uncover and Combat Stress-Induced Aging

You Might Also Be Experiencing

• Blood Pressure Spikes In Women

• Blood Pressure Spikes After Eating

• Blood Pressure Spikes After Menopause

• Blood Pressure Spikes With Depression

• Blood Pressure Spikes Perimenopause

References

• Mayo Clinic – Anxiety

• Mayo Clinic – Depression

• CDC – Mental Health