Your mind races as you try to meet an impossible deadline.  At the same time, your nervous system shoots out chemicals that cause your blood pressure to climb and your heart beats faster.

Over time, a lot of daily stress may lead to heart disease. Studies show that women and men with high job stress are at higher risk for heart disease.  In addition, some people experience a greater rise in blood pressure when they're stressed than their peers do.  Individuals that do have a high physical response to stress further raise the risk of developing hypertension.

Take time out - stress management can help keep blood pressure in the healthy range.  Try these tips:

• Write down what makes you feel stressed, and try to change what you can.
• Learn to identify signs of stress (tense shoulders, etc).  Then, go for a walk or do some stretches.
• Consider meditation.  Studies show that it can relieve stress and lower blood pressure.
• Practice healthy habits, including exercise and getting adequate sleep.

More information on stress:

• Stress management
• Stress in childhood
• Stress and anxiety
• Stress vs. anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Backaches and stress