Discover the connection between pain and high blood pressure. Learn how acute and chronic pain affect your body, the most common symptoms, and how My DR Family Clinic can help you manage both.
Pain and high blood pressure (hypertension) are two very common conditions that affect millions of people, and often, they occur at the same time. But can pain actually cause high blood pressure, or does it simply make it worse?
When a person experiences pain, their body activates the sympathetic nervous system, known as the “fight or flight” response. This mechanism increases heart rate, releases stress hormones, and can temporarily raise blood pressure. Although this is a natural reaction, if the pain is frequent or intense, it can put cardiovascular health at risk.
In this article, we will explore the relationship between pain and blood pressure, the differences between acute and chronic pain, the symptoms of hypertension, how to manage pain safely, and when to seek medical help.
Acute pain and its effect on blood pressure
Acute pain appears suddenly—due to an injury, surgery, or an unexpected physical event. In these situations, the body’s nervous system reacts immediately.
According to a review in the British Journal of Anesthesia, acute pain activates the sympathetic nervous system and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, causing sodium retention and a temporary increase in blood pressure (BJA, 2025).
In most patients, this increase in blood pressure is temporary. When the pain subsides, the blood pressure also decreases. However, in people with hypertension, repeated episodes of pain or poor pain management can maintain high blood pressure levels or cause dangerous spikes.
Short-term and long-term effects:
- Short term: Pain raises blood pressure for minutes or hours.
- Long term: Constant or poorly controlled pain can affect the cardiovascular system over time.
Symptoms of high blood pressure
High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it often has no symptoms. However, some people may notice signs when their blood pressure rises significantly:
- Pain or stiffness in the neck
- Severe headache
- Dizziness or lightheartedness
- Blurred vision or vision problems
- Nosebleeds
- Fatigue or confusion
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeats (palpitations)
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, as they may indicate a hypertensive crisis or other cardiovascular disease.
Can chronic pain raise blood pressure?
Chronic pain, which lasts for more than three months, affects 21% of adults in the U.S., and nearly 8% experience high-impact chronic pain, which limits their daily activities (NIH, 2023).
Studies show that about 40% of people with chronic pain also have high blood pressure (Verywell Health, 2024). This may be because persistent pain keeps stress hormones active, which in turn keeps blood pressure elevated.
However, prolonged pain doesn’t always mean hypertension. A review from Duke University found that, in some patients, chronic pain can even lower baseline blood pressure due to changes in the feedback mechanisms between pain and blood pressure (Duke Pain Journal, 2024).
In summary, pain and blood pressure have a complex relationship. In some cases, pain raises blood pressure; in others, the body adapts and levels decrease over time.
Can emotional pain increase blood pressure?
Yes. Emotional pain—such as stress, anxiety, sadness, or anger—can temporarily raise blood pressure. These emotions activate the same hormonal systems that respond to physical pain.
During these episodes, the body releases adrenaline and cortisol, which accelerates the heart rate and increases vascular resistance, raising blood pressure.
If emotional stress is constant, it can contribute to sustained hypertension, especially if other risk factors are present, such as obesity, lack of sleep, or physical inactivity. Relaxation techniques, psychological therapy, and mindfulness can help manage these effects.
Do painkillers affect blood pressure?
Yes, some pain medications can affect blood pressure depending on the type of drug:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen): they can increase blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications.
- Paracetamol (acetaminophen): It is generally safer for people with high blood pressure, but excessive use can affect the liver.
- Opioids: they can lower blood pressure slightly, but they have significant side effects and a risk of dependence.
- Corticosteroids: used for chronic inflammation, they can increase blood pressure if used for prolonged periods.
If you have high blood pressure, always consult your doctor before taking pain relievers. At My DR Family Clinic, our professionals carefully review medication interactions to ensure safe and effective pain management.
How to manage pain and keep blood pressure stable.
1. Lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques
Some simple adjustments can improve both pain control and blood pressure control:
- Regular physical activity (as directed by a doctor)
- Deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
- A healthy diet, low in salt and processed foods.
- Weight management and adequate hydration
- Get enough rest to reduce stress.
2. Medical treatments and pain management
If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may offer:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises
- Prescription medications suitable for your case.
- Injections or nerve blocks for chronic pain
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage emotional stress.
- Regular blood pressure monitoring and medication adjustments.
Pain and high blood pressure should be treated comprehensively, as one condition can affect the other.
Frequently asked questions about pain and blood pressure
1. Can pain alone cause high blood pressure?
Yes, pain can temporarily raise blood pressure, but chronic hypertension is usually due to multiple factors, such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle.
2. Do pain medications lower blood pressure?
Some opioids may lower it slightly, but most painkillers, especially anti-inflammatory drugs, can raise it.
3. Should I measure my blood pressure when I’m in pain?
Yes. Keeping a record helps you detect patterns that you can discuss with your doctor.
4. Does treating pain improve blood pressure?
Yes, controlling pain can help stabilize blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
How My DR Family Clinic can help you
At My DR Family Clinic, we understand the connection between pain and high blood pressure. Our specialized team offers comprehensive care in pain management, hypertension treatment, and family primary care.
We offer:
- Accurate diagnosis and blood pressure monitoring
- Personalized pain management plans
- Reviewing medications to avoid side effects.
- Lifestyle coaching and stress management
- Same-day appointments and care for patients without appointments.
If you are experiencing pain or high blood pressure, don’t ignore the signs. Let us help you find a balance between pain relief and cardiovascular health.
Call My DR Family Clinic today or book your appointment online to start taking care of your blood pressure and well-being safely.
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