Final answer:
The hormone release that caused the increase in blood pressure during stress originates from the adrenal glands, which secrete epinephrine and norepinephrine, crucial for the fight-or-flight response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The increase in blood pressure from 120/80 to 160/100 during a stressful situation is due to the release of hormones from the adrenal glands. These glands are responsible for the secretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are critical for the body's fight-or-flight response. These hormones increase heart rate, force of contraction, and cause vasoconstriction to non-essential organs while redirecting blood flow to organs that are crucial during stress, such as the liver, muscles, and heart.
Moreover, the adrenal glands also play a role in the long-term stress response by secreting corticosteroids after stimulation by ACTH. This leads to sodium and fluid retention, thereby increasing blood volume and blood pressure.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question about the hormonal release that caused the person's blood pressure to rise during a stressful situation is: A) Adrenal Glands.