Can trauma cause physical health problems?
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3 Answers
Yes. Adverse childhood experiences and PTSD are associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions, chronic pain, and substance use, through chronic stress physiology and behavioural pathways.
Mechanisms include sustained cortisol elevation, chronic low-grade inflammation, disturbed sleep, and higher rates of smoking, alcohol use and disordered eating as coping.
The association is statistical, not deterministic. Treatment of trauma and addressing modifiable risks meaningfully changes the trajectory.
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