Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2025 Dec 19;28(1):3. doi: 10.1007/s11883-025-01372-1.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Mental stress has long been overlooked in the development of hypertension. We aim to provide new insights for clinicians in managing this condition.This review aims to summarize the epidemiological characteristics, complex mechanisms, diagnostic methods, as well as both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment strategies for mental stress-induced hypertension.
RECENT FINDINGS: Many hypertensive patients continue to experience fluctuations in blood pressure despite being treated with multiple anti-hypertensive medications. Mental stress-induced hypertension represents a potentially reversible and often underrecognized contributor to cardiovascular risk. Timely identification allows for early, targeted intervention that addresses both hemodynamic control and the underlying psychosocial triggers. Such an approach should combine evidence-based antihypertensive therapy with structured psychological interventions, including validated non-pharmacological measures and pharmacological agents targeting anxiety or depressive symptoms. By integrating cardiovascular and mental health strategies, clinicians can improve long-term blood pressure control, enhance overall patient well-being, and reduce the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events.
PMID:41417166 | DOI:10.1007/s11883-025-01372-1