Chronic Pain Linked to Higher Hypertension Risk, Study Finds

A new study published in the American Heart Association’s journal Hypertension has found that adults living with chronic pain face a significantly higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Researchers analysed data from more than 2,00,000 adults over an average of 13.5 years and observed that the likelihood of hypertension increased with both the severity and the extent of pain.

The study reported that individuals with widespread chronic pain had the highest risk, while those experiencing long-term pain in specific areas also showed elevated chances of developing hypertension. Researchers noted that inflammation and depression played a role in this connection.

Experts say the findings underscore the need for proactive pain management and regular blood pressure monitoring for people dealing with persistent pain.