Is There a Link Between Heart Health and Pain?

February is American Heart Month. While it’s critical to be heart-healthy throughout the year, February is a month focused on everything heart-related.

Additionally, as we age, it's not uncommon to start experiencing more aches and pains. But what many people don't realize is that there may be a connection between heart health and pain.

Connection Between Heart Health and Pain

Heart health and pain are often intertwined, and it's imperative not to take any chest pains lightly. Sometimes even mild chest pains could signify something more serious, so you must stay aware.

Understanding the connection between heart health and pain may help you to take proactive steps before a minor problem develops into something more complex. Of course, understanding this connection can also be comforting. Chest pains are more common than we think and can signify physical stress or anxiety. All in all, it is worth being mindful of how your heart health may relate to any chest pains you experience, as taking proper care of your cardiovascular system can majorly impact your overall well-being.

Symptoms to Be Aware Of and Alternate Conditions

Heart problem symptoms often include:

• Chest pain or tightness;
• Shortness of breath;
• Nausea;
• Vomiting; and,
• Lightheadedness.

In some cases, the pain can radiate to other areas, such as the shoulders and arms. Unfortunately, these symptoms may also be linked to several other conditions related to the muscles and circulatory system. This means you could wrongly attribute symptoms to a milder condition instead of seeking immediate medical care. If you begin experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek help immediately to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

Heart Disease and Pain in Different Parts of the Body

Heart disease is an incredibly serious and concerning condition that can cause immense physical pain and suffering in people. It can affect the heart and other parts of the body due to poor circulation. People with heart disease may experience chest pain or discomfort, but they may also experience pain in their arms, back, neck, or jaw.

Back Pain

Back pain is closely linked to heart problems, as the two can often be directly connected. Poor posture and lack of physical activity can lead to poor circulation, resulting in back pain that may eventually spread to other parts of your body. Additionally, pre-existing heart problems such as coronary artery disease or hypertension can cause increased blood pressure, leading to back pain. If you’ve had a heart attack or stroke recently, your body may be healing, and you may experience muscle tension which could also cause back pain.

One of the most common causes of back pain is degenerative disc disease, in which wear and tear on the spine leads to an increased chance of experiencing pain. Poor circulation can also contribute to this, as it reduces the ability of discs to absorb shock and pressure. A pre-existing condition such as diabetes or arthritis can also cause inflammation in your body, which may lead to back pain.

Other Pains

Because atherosclerotic plaques can block arteries leading to other body parts, those areas may become deprived of oxygen-rich blood and cause discomfort or excruciating pain. If you have been experiencing unexplained pains in different parts of your body, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible to rule out heart disease and ensure your long-term health.

Questions About Your Pain?

This February, get the gift of self-love by speaking with a qualified professional about your heart pain or other aches. The team at American Pain Consortium will give you the confidence to feel the best about your heart health. Schedule a consultation and feel better about your future — contact us online or by phone to get started. (888) 615-2726