Six ways chronic pain affects your heart

Like it or not, pain plays an important role in your life. Not in an angsty, “life is pain” kind of way, but as a signal to your nervous system that your body is not functioning properly.

Pain is your body’s way of letting you know something’s wrong. It often accompanies an injury like a back sprain or broken bone. It can result from an illness or health condition. In most cases, it fades as your body heals.

Chronic pain, on the other hand, is pain that persists for more than 12 weeks—often for months or even years. There is not always a clear cause.

Chronic pain can cause multiple health problems including excessive fatigue, disrupted sleep, and depression. Here’s a look at six ways it can affect your heart specifically.

Find a doctor

Don’t let pain put a strain on your heart. Find a doctor at Providence.org that can help you determine the cause of your pain and offer solutions that bring relief. 

Visit our provider directory to find a primary care doctor or specialist

Related Resources

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Practical Pain Management Report: Treat the Pain Save a Heart

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

About the Author

The Providence Heart & Vascular Team is committed to bringing you many years of expertise and experience to help you understand how to prevent, treat and recover from cardiovascular diseases and conditions. From tips to eating better to exercise and everything in between, our clinical experts know how to help you help your heart.

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