Anxiety: A cause of high blood pressure?

Anxiety doesn't cause persistent high blood pressure (hypertension). But episodes of anxiety can cause dramatic, temporary spikes in your blood pressure.

If those temporary episodes occur frequently, they can cause just as much damage to your blood vessels, heart and kidneys as can chronic high blood pressure. In addition, when you have anxiety, you're more likely to resort to other unhealthy habits, such as smoking, drinking or overeating — which, in turn, can increase your risk of high blood pressure.

If you have trouble controlling your anxiety or if anxiety interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor or a mental health professional. Effective treatment is available.