What is a common physiological response to stress regarding blood pressure?

In moments of stress, the body triggers the "fight or flight" response, which involves the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. This response leads to a series of physiological changes designed to prepare the individual to deal with perceived threats. One of the primary effects of this response is an increase in blood pressure.

Stress leads to the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which cause the heart to beat faster and the blood vessels to constrict. This combination elevates blood volume and increases cardiac output, resulting in higher blood pressure. The body's intention is to ensure that vital organs receive more blood, enhancing the ability to react to stressors quickly. This response is a normal, temporary reaction to stress, highlighting the close relationship between emotional states and physiological changes.