Yes, nerves, particularly when activated by stress, can raise blood pressure (BP).
When you experience stress, your body activates the sympathetic nervous system. This activation leads to the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones cause several physiological changes, including:
- Increased Heart Rate: Your heart beats faster, pumping more blood.
- Narrowed Blood Vessels: Blood vessels constrict, increasing resistance to blood flow.
Both of these effects contribute to a rise in blood pressure. This is a natural response to stress, often referred to as the "fight or flight" response.
However, while temporary increases in blood pressure due to stress are common, chronic or frequent elevations can be problematic. While the blood pressure usually returns to normal after the stressful event passes, repeated spikes can damage blood vessels, the heart, and kidneys over time, and may even contribute to heart attacks or strokes. Therefore, managing stress is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
