PTSD Comorbid with Heart Disease Rises
PTSD doubles heart disease risk in some groups, new data shows, highlighting need for joint mental-physical health care.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often co-occurs with cardiovascular disease (CVD), a connection gaining attention in recent research. A 2023 meta-analysis found individuals with PTSD have a 47 per cent higher risk of incident heart failure and 30 per cent increased coronary heart disease (1). This comorbidity stems from chronic activation of the stress response, elevating cortisol and catecholamines that damage blood vessels and promote inflammation .
In Australia, where bushfires, floods and pandemics have heightened trauma exposure, experts note rising concerns among veterans and first responders. A University of New South Wales study reported PTSD-positive emergency workers showed elevated C-reactive protein levels, a marker of inflammation linked to atherosclerosis . Autonomic nervous system dysregulation in PTSD – marked by reduced heart rate variability – further exacerbates arrhythmia risks .
Comorbid anxiety and depression, common in PTSD, compound CVD via poor lifestyle adherence and medication non-compliance. Substance use, another frequent co-occurring condition, accelerates plaque buildup .
Therapies addressing both are emerging. Cognitive processing therapy combined with cardiac rehabilitation improved outcomes in a pilot trial, reducing PTSD symptoms by 40 per cent and stabilising blood pressure . Experts opine that routine PTSD screening in cardiology clinics could prevent events, though implementation lags . Australian guidelines from Beyond Blue recommend holistic assessments for trauma histories in CVD patients .
While causation remains debated – with reverse causality possible where heart issues trigger PTSD-like symptoms – bidirectional links are evident. Ongoing trials explore beta-blockers for PTSD intrusions alongside cardioprotection (1). For those affected, integrated care offers hope, blending trauma-focused interventions with lifestyle support to break the cycle.