How does stress typically lead to elevated blood pressure?

Elevated blood pressure in response to stress is primarily associated with the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. When a person experiences stress, the body reacts by entering a 'fight or flight' response, which involves the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.

The sympathetic nervous system, when stimulated, causes an increase in heart rate and the force of heart contractions, as well as vasoconstriction of blood vessels. This means that the blood vessels narrow, resulting in increased resistance to blood flow. The combined effect of a higher heart rate, increased cardiac output, and narrowed blood vessels contributes to elevated blood pressure during periods of stress.

Understanding the role of cortisol is also crucial. Although cortisol has various functions in the body, its release during stress further exacerbates blood pressure elevation by affecting the way the kidneys handle sodium and water, leading to increased blood volume. Therefore, the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system and the subsequent increased cortisol production are key mechanisms by which stress leads to elevated blood pressure.