February is Heart Health Month. Chronic pain conditions and heart disease which often coincide or occur as a result of the other. It is imperative that you and your doctor closely monitor your health to recognize the early signs of either condition.
Chronic Pain Leading to Heart Conditions
Indirectly, many chronic pain patients lead inactive lives that result in poor diet and obesity. Obesity contributes to heart disease by raising triglycerides and blood sugar, both risk factors for heart disease.
Heart Conditions Leading to Chronic Pain
- Family history
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Inactive lifestyle
- Excessive alcohol use
- Poor diet
- Tobacco use
Patients experiencing heart failure may also suffer from pain related to inflammation, ischemia and neuropathy. Pain symptoms may also be aggravated by anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Chest pains, difficulty breathing or chest discomfort could be symptoms of heart conditions such as arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease and heart valve disease.