Which of the following is a possible cause for elevated vital signs?

• A. Anxiety
• B. Sleep
• C. Hydration
• D. Couch potato lifestyle

Answer: (A)

Elevated vital signs, which include increased heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature, can often be attributed to various factors, with anxiety being a significant one. When a person experiences anxiety, the body's "fight or flight" response is activated, leading to the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. This response prepares the body to respond to perceived threats, resulting in physiological changes such as an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, both of which contribute to elevated vital signs.

In contrast, sleep generally has a calming effect on the body, often resulting in lower heart rates and blood pressure. Proper hydration is important for maintaining normal bodily functions and does not typically cause an increase in vital signs. Meanwhile, a sedentary lifestyle or "couch potato" approach can be linked with various health issues over time, but it does not directly cause an immediate elevation in vital signs like anxiety does.