Anxiety can cause high blood pressure by triggering temporary increases above a person’s usual levels. During anxiety episodes, the body releases stress hormones that can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Other anxiety symptoms can include a fast heartbeat, rapid breathing, excessive sweating, muscle tension, nausea, a hollow or cold feeling in the stomach, dizziness, persistent worry, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.
Frequent anxiety or high anxiety levels may increase the risk of developing hypertension over time. This is why it is important to manage anxiety and prevent it from becoming a constant problem. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, and dancing, can help control anxiety.
If anxiety is affecting your daily life, consider talking with a psychologist or another mental health professional about treatment options that may help. Therapy is often recommended, and in some situations it may be combined with medication.