What is one potential health impact of chronic anxiety?

Chronic anxiety is associated with the body's prolonged stress response, which can have several health impacts, one of the most significant being hypertension. When a person experiences chronic anxiety, it leads to sustained elevations in heart rate and blood pressure due to the persistent release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this heightened state can cause the blood vessels to constrict and lead to increased blood pressure, commonly referred to as hypertension.

This condition can strain the cardiovascular system and may contribute to more serious health issues, such as heart disease. While anxiety can lead to behaviors that result in weight gain or impact immune function negatively, hypertension as a direct physiological response to chronic anxiety is a well-documented health concern. The other options, implying benefits such as improved immune function, weight gain in a healthy way, or enhanced cardiovascular health, are not correct since the chronic stress related to anxiety tends to have adverse effects on these aspects.