16. Immediately, during the stress response, breathing rates are increased and heavier, heart rate increases and blood vessels constrict. The continuous constriction of blood vessels is associated with increased blood pressure and higher risk for heart problems, chronic stress over time can lead to stroke or even heart attack (AIS, 2020) Picture: Habits of the heart [Respiratory and cardiovascular systems]. (2000). Retrieved April 29, 2020, from https://www.smm.org/heart/