Persistent pain in different parts of the body can sometimes cause complications, and a recent study has identified such pain as a possible cause of high blood pressure. This pain may occur in the back, neck, stomach, knees, and even throughout the entire body.
According to a study published in the medical journal Hypertension, chronic pain silently increases the risk of high blood pressure. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to heart attacks and damage to blood vessels. However, pain in body parts is generally not considered a cause of high blood pressure.
The report stated that researchers analyzed data from more than 200,000 individuals to assess the risk of high blood pressure associated with chronic pain.
The study concluded that compared to people without pain, those experiencing persistent pain have a higher likelihood of developing high blood pressure. This risk is not the same for everyone, as individuals with pain in multiple body parts face a greater risk of high blood pressure.
The report further noted that the more body parts affected by pain, the higher the risk of developing high blood pressure later in life. People with pain in fewer body parts also face risks, but these are lower compared to those with widespread pain.
The study highlighted that an important reason behind this link is related to mental health. It found that individuals with chronic pain are also at risk of depression, and people suffering from depression have a higher risk of high blood pressure as well.
It was also reported that individuals experiencing chronic pain in different body parts may face other health problems over time, including heart disease.
The report added that pain is not just a sensation; it also affects human behavior, sleep, and work performance, and increases stress. All these factors are linked to blood pressure control.
