Can Stress Cause Low BP?
October 13, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Stress typically has the opposite effect on blood pressure; it tends to raise blood pressure rather than lower it. When you experience stress, your body’s “fight or flight” response is activated, leading to the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. These hormones cause your heart to beat faster and your blood vessels to constrict, which can result in an increase in blood pressure.
However, in some cases, chronic or severe stress can indirectly contribute to a drop in blood pressure (hypotension) through various mechanisms. For example:
- Dehydration: Stress can lead to increased sweating and decreased fluid intake, which may cause dehydration. Dehydration can, in turn, lead to low blood pressure.
- Reduced Appetite: Stress can affect your appetite, leading to decreased food intake. Inadequate nutrition and a lack of essential nutrients can contribute to low blood pressure.
- Vasovagal Syncope: In some cases, an extreme stress response can trigger a vasovagal syncope, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure and fainting. This happens due to a sudden relaxation of blood vessels and a slowing of the heart rate, which can occur during a highly stressful or anxiety-inducing event.
- Medications: Some medications prescribed for stress or anxiety may have side effects that include a drop in blood pressure.
It’s important to note that while stress can lead to temporary fluctuations in blood pressure, chronic low blood pressure is more likely to have other underlying causes, such as certain medical conditions, medications, or lifestyle factors. If you are experiencing persistently low blood pressure, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment or guidance.