Can past trauma put your heart at risk? Research shows a strong link between PTSD and cardiovascular disease

Experiencing or witnessing deeply distressing events—such as natural disasters, violent attacks, or serious accidents—is more common than many realize. Studies show that up to 70% of adults will go through at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. While some recover over time, others develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that not only affects the mind but also significantly raises the risk of heart disease.

A recent analysis, published in August 2024, reviewed 20 studies involving more than 335,000 people. The findings? PTSD increases the risk of heart attack by 40% and doubles the risk of stroke. But why does trauma take such a heavy toll on the heart?

What is PTSD?

PTSD is often associated with war veterans, but it can affect anyone who has experienced severe trauma. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a car accident, sexual assault, or gun violence, PTSD can develop when distressing memories and emotions don’t fade with time. Common symptoms include:

• Recurring nightmares or intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event
• Feeling emotionally numb and disconnected from others
• Avoiding people or situations that trigger memories of the trauma
• Constantly feeling on edge or easily startled

According to the studies, among the general population, PTSD affects approximately 4% of men and 8% of women, while 11% to 20% of veterans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan struggle with the condition.

How PTSD Affects the Heart

Scientists have uncovered a fascinating connection between PTSD and cardiovascular disease. A study states how PTSD disrupts brain activity, setting off a chain reaction that harms the heart.

• The Fear Response Goes Into Overdrive: The amygdala, the brain’s fear center, becomes hyperactive in people with PTSD. Meanwhile, the prefrontal cortex—responsible for calming fear—becomes less active. This imbalance keeps the brain in a constant state of high alert.
• The Body’s Stress Response Stays Turned On: Normally, the body’s fight-or-flight response helps protect us in dangerous situations. But in people with PTSD, this response doesn’t shut off. As a result, heart rate and blood pressure remain elevated, increasing strain on the heart.
• Inflammation and Clotting Increase: PTSD causes the bone marrow to release more white blood cells, which can lead to chronic inflammation. Over time, this inflammation damages blood vessels, accelerates plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), and makes the blood stickier—raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Can Reducing Stress Lower Heart Risk?

The good news is that managing PTSD can also protect your heart. Researchers are now studying stress-reduction techniques to see which ones work best for lowering heart disease risk. Here are some promising approaches:

• Exercise: Physical activity strengthens the heart and boosts brain function, including the prefrontal cortex, which helps regulate fear responses.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction: This eight-week program includes meditation, body scanning, and gentle yoga. Studies suggest it can help lower high blood pressure and improve emotional well-being.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A leading PTSD treatment, CBT helps rewire negative thought patterns and may also reduce inflammation linked to heart disease.
• Breathwork: Deep breathing exercises help activate the body’s relaxation response, counteracting chronic stress.

Dr. Antonia Seligowski and her team are currently researching whether CBT and breathwork can reduce arterial inflammation in PTSD patients at high risk for heart disease. Their findings could open new doors for treating both mental and physical health conditions together.

PTSD is more than a mental health condition—it has real consequences for heart health. Understanding this connection highlights the importance of addressing trauma, not just for emotional healing but also for preventing long-term cardiovascular issues. If you or someone you know struggles with PTSD, seeking treatment could be a lifesaving step for both the mind and heart.