Headaches can occur due to various reasons. From stress, migraines, and sinus infections to eye strain, dental problems, and bad posture, there can be a number of causes. However, did you know that high blood pressure, or hypertension, can also trigger a headache? If you didn’t, it is crucial to understand the link and to know how to differentiate between the different types of headaches.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sanjay Bhat, Senior Consultant - Interventional Cardiology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, sheds light on hypertension headaches, their signs, and ways to manage and prevent the condition.
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What Causes Hypertension Headaches?
“People who have chronic high blood pressure often complain of frequent headaches,” says Dr Bhat, adding that hypertension headaches are caused by the increased intracranial pressure that results from uncontrolled hypertension.
Hypertension is when the pressure in your blood vessels is very high, specifically 140/90 mmHg or higher. It occurs when the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high.
Headaches due to high blood pressure happen when the blood vessels constrict and the brain doesn't get enough blood flow, and the pain receptors are triggered, explains Dr Bhat. High blood pressure can cause many physiological changes, including inflammation and the release of some chemicals that make the nerves more sensitive to pain.
How To Identify Hypertension Headaches![]()
Since there are different types of headaches, it can be difficult to tell hypertension headaches apart from other forms of headaches.
However, experts suggest that hypertension headaches can be very different from normal headaches, especially in symptomatology.
Dr Bhat notes that people with hypertension headaches complain of a pounding or pulsing pain usually in the back of their head or neck, and the pain worsens with exertion or stress. This is different from common headaches like tension-type headaches or migraines, which are usually present for days to months. People with hypertension headaches might also experience sensitivities to light or sound, possible nausea, and the pain could range from moderate to severe in intensity.
It is important to note that hypertension can be asymptomatic, meaning it may not show any signs, especially in the early stages.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 46% of adults with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition. Hence, regular screening is of utmost importance.
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How To Reduce Headaches Associated With High Blood Pressure
Lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in improving blood pressure levels and reducing related symptoms, such as headaches.
“A diet that is not only low in salt but also high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will greatly help in reducing high blood pressure, which in turn will limit the number of headaches one has and the severity of those headaches. And of course, there's also regular physical exercise, aerobic exercise that can do wonders for hypertension. Stress management, mindfulness, yoga, and sleep, all of which contribute to the regulation of blood pressure,” highlights Dr Bhat.
He adds that doctors can also prescribe antihypertensive medicines to manage high blood pressure, which can alleviate headaches. People should consult a doctor if they are having headaches related to high blood pressure because then they can get an overall plan on how to manage it for them specifically,” he added.
Conclusion
Headaches can be caused by various factors, including high blood pressure. However, it can be difficult to tell hypertension-related headaches from regular headaches. This is why it is crucial to focus on the specific symptoms or consult a doctor, who can examine your condition and reach a confirmed diagnosis. Remember, a healthy lifestyle can not only help manage headaches caused by hypertension, but it can also help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and related issues.