High blood pressure (hypertension) has become a common problem among people, and it is referred to as the silent killer. This is because it has no symptoms, so people don’t know whether they have high blood pressure. However, there is still one common symptom, which many people say is headaches. Many people wonder whether their headache is a result of increased blood pressure or is caused by something else. One thing to consider is that headaches from high blood pressure are mainly described as pressure-like pain. Let’s read out here to find out the connection between headaches and high blood pressure.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
First of all, we must understand what causes high blood pressure. Well, this happens when the blood pressure against the artery walls is too high most of the time. There are several reasons for this, such as:
- Obesity
- Poor diet
- High sodium intake
- Genetics or family history
- Severe stress
- Lack of physical activity
- Excessive intake of alcohol or caffeine
- Any medical conditions, such as kidney disease
Are Headaches a Symptom of High Blood Pressure?
Many people wonder about the connection between hypertension and headaches. Headaches can be a symptom of high blood pressure, but we cannot rely on them. In most cases, we will see that people with hypertension don’t experience any symptoms for years. However, when blood pressure reaches high levels, headaches can occur, and some patients may experience this.
When High Blood Pressure Does Cause Headaches
Those who have high blood pressure always have queries related to headaches. So, first, let’s find out when high BP can cause you headaches. When a person has severely high blood pressure then this also causes swelling in the brain. This increases the brain’s internal pressure, which is known as intracranial pressure. Because of this, there may be an occurrence of hypertensive headaches. In case of intense and sudden headaches along with a spike in blood pressure, you should seek emergency medical care right away.
Types of Headaches and How They Differ
One must understand that not all headaches are equal or caused by the same reason. There is a need for awareness to understand the differences that can help you determine whether your headache is because of hypertension or another cause. So, understand these types of headaches first:
Tension Headaches- These are a common kind of headache that causes dull pain and affects both sides of the head. They are mild to moderate in intensity, and the pain does not increase after any physical activity. The main reasons behind this headache are stress and anxiety. It is important to understand that these headaches are not directly caused by high blood pressure, but can happen in people with chronic stress.
Migraines– Migraines are very intense pain that the affected person feels on only one side of the head. They also come with other effects like sensitivity to light and sound or nausea. Migraine headaches are not triggered by high blood pressure, but stress can temporarily increase the pain. So, one must recognize the connection between headaches and high blood pressure in patients with both these conditions.
Cluster Headaches- Cluster headaches happen mostly around one eye and are very sharp and intense. Other symptoms, like redness and nasal congestion, can accompany the pain. This headache is also not directly caused by hypertension. However, cluster headaches can sometimes be a reason for temporary increases in blood pressure during an attack.
Hypertension-Related Headaches- Hypertension-related headaches will occur if there is a sudden rise in blood pressure, and it reaches high levels. These headaches are described as pulsating and can also cause other issues like shortness of breath, chest pain, or blurred vision. These types of headaches and high blood pressure are medical emergencies that need to be addressed by a doctor. This can sometimes cause damage to blood vessels or organs.
The Role of Chronic Hypertension in Headache Disorders
Chronic hypertension sometimes contributes to the cause or worsening of certain headaches over time. Also, it can increase the chances of the occurrence of vascular headaches. Not only this, but it also causes frequent migraines. If a person has long-term high blood pressure, they may feel changes that increase headache sensitivity. So, we understood that yes, there is a connection between hypertension and headache, but it varies from person to person.
How to Tell If Your Headache Is Due to High Blood Pressure
It is not possible to tell if the headache you are having is because of high blood pressure. Because this requires proper diagnosis, tests, and doctor consultations. But there are some things that you can analyze to find if it is a blood pressure-related headache:
- You can check your blood pressure during a headache. If it is too high and you are also having a headache, then visit your doctor.
- A sudden start of a severe headache can also be a symptom of hypertension.
- When your headache is not reducing even after taking painkillers.
- If the headache is causing pressure-like pain and other issues, such as chest pain or shortness of breath.
Managing Headaches When You Have High Blood Pressure
The real question is how one can manage headaches during hypertension, and what the proper blood pressure headache treatment is. So, here are a few ways that can help you:
Keep checking your blood pressure – You should keep a blood pressure device and track your readings regularly. It can help you find any differences in patterns or triggers.
Timely consumption of medicine– High blood pressure medicines help manage blood pressure, and in some cases, they can also reduce headache frequency. So, don’t forget to take the medicine on time and get blood pressure-related headache relief. High blood pressure can cause or worsen headaches by putting extra pressure on blood vessels. Medications like Amlodipine Besilate 5 mg (a calcium channel blocker) and Clonidine 100 mcg (a central alpha-agonist) are commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure, helping reduce headache frequency and protect against long-term cardiovascular damage.
Take plenty of water- You must know that dehydration can cause headaches and worsen hypertension. So, try taking as much water as you can.
FAQ
Are headaches always a sign of high blood pressure?
No, this is not true because headaches can happen for several reasons.
Can blood pressure medications reduce headaches?
Yes, intake of these BP medicines can reduce the frequency of occurrence of headaches if it is related to hypertension.
Can rebound headaches cause spikes in blood pressure?
Rebound headaches can happen because of the excessive use of painkillers, which is also a source of stress. So, yes, there can also be an increase in blood pressure.
What is a normal blood pressure range?
A person who has having blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg is normal, but this will depend on age and other factors.
Does anxiety increase blood pressure and cause headaches?
Yes, anxiety and stress cause a temporary but significant increase in blood pressure, which will ultimately cause tension-related headaches.
Final Thoughts
From this, we can say that headaches can be a symptom of high blood pressure, but not always, because there are different types of headaches. You should understand the severity of the pain and consult a doctor.