High Blood Pressure
Typical cortisol concentrations have been shown to strengthen cardiac muscle, reduce hypertension and glucose levels, and improve insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, low hormone levels improve memory, strengthen the immune system, and dull pain perception. High levels of stress hormones identified in the urine were associated with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure over the following 6-7 years in a research study involving more than 400 persons with normal blood pressure. Heart attacks and strokes are among the cardiovascular outcomes associated with elevated cortisol levels.
The hormone cortisol constricts blood vessels while the hormone adrenaline speeds up the heart. Together, they raise the heart rate and blood pressure so that a person can respond more quickly and effectively to a situation. However, prolonged high cortisol levels can do more damage than benefit the body. Plaque accumulation in the arteries and other blood vessel damage may result from high blood pressure and narrowed arteries. Potentially, they are laying the groundwork for a future cardiac arrest or cerebrovascular accident. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure levels during stressful situations is essential to avoid unfortunate possibilities.
