A new large-scale analysis suggests that adults experiencing chronic pain for over three months – especially when accompanied by depression and inflammation – may face a significantly higher risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension) later in life. The findings shed light on how long-term pain may trigger physiological changes that influence cardiovascular health.
The research, published in the American Heart Association’s journal Hypertension, examined data from more than 200,000 adults enrolled in the UK Biobank, one of the world’s largest biomedical databases. Participants had an average age of 57 at the start of the study and were followed for 13.5 years.
Key Findings
- Nearly 10% of the study participants developed high blood pressure during the follow-up period.
- Individuals reporting widespread chronic pain—pain affecting multiple parts of the body—had the highest risk, with a 75% increased likelihood of developing hypertension compared to those without chronic pain.
- The association between chronic pain and high blood pressure was strongest among patients who also experienced symptoms of depression, higher inflammatory markers, or both.
Why Chronic Pain Raises Hypertension Risk
Researchers suggest several possible mechanisms:
- Stress Response Activation:
Chronic pain activates the body’s stress systems, increasing cortisol and adrenaline, which can elevate blood pressure over time. - Inflammation:
Pain often leads to long-term inflammation, which is linked to arterial stiffness and impaired blood vessel function. - Mental Health Impact:
Depression and anxiety – common among chronic pain patients – are known contributors to poor cardiovascular outcomes. - Reduced Activity Levels:
Chronic pain can restrict mobility, leading to weight gain, reduced fitness, and higher hypertension risk.
The researchers emphasised that chronic pain shouldn’t be viewed merely as a symptom, but as a potential independent risk factor for long-term cardiovascular disease.
They recommend:
- Regular blood pressure monitoring for individuals with chronic pain lasting more than three months
- Integrated care involving pain management, mental health support, and cardiovascular screening
- Lifestyle interventions such as gentle exercise, stress reduction, and anti-inflammatory diets
The study underscores the need for clinicians to take a holistic approach to chronic pain treatment, as addressing pain alone may not be sufficient to prevent future cardiovascular risks.
