Hypertension Headaches

Introduction -

Hypertension (also called high blood pressure) can be the cause of heart attacks and strokes. It is a silent killer as it is does not show any obvious symptoms. It can also cause headaches, however the blood pressure has to be too high for causing a headache (200/110 or higher).

Medications taken for relief from high blood pressure also may result in a headache.

Hypertension Headaches -

These are the common types of headaches and are considered normal. Around 90% of all headaches are hypertension headaches. A steady and dull pain is seen in the forehead, temple and back of the neck and is usually felt like a tight band tied around the head. Around 40 percent people suffer from this. These are caused by high blood pressure in the body. Stress and emotional factors can lead to high blood pressure thereby causing headaches.

At times, incorrect postures causing tension on the head and neck and other activities involving longer periods of eyestrain can result in hypertension headaches.

Degenerative arthritis of the neck and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (it is a disorder of the joint between the temporal bone and the lower jaw resulting from poor biting and jaw clenching) are also said to cause the headaches.

These may last for a longer time or may die down after the stress is released out. The exact cause is not known. However, it is believed to be caused by sustained muscle tension.

Symptoms of Hypertension Headaches -

Pain, pressure or tightness begins in one location that gradually spreads out to the other parts of the head. It usually starts at the back of the head and upper neck. A tight pain or pressure is felt around the head, with the severe pain near the eyebrows. Usually there is a mild pain at both the sides of the head. A painful, squeezing sensation is experienced in the forehead, temples, back of the head that may get down to the neck and shoulders. Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to sound or light are also seen sometimes.

Treatment of Hypertension Headaches -

Pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used. When the pain gets severe, more powerful drugs are recommended.

Stress management therapies, relaxation exercises and meditation are also recommended.

Hypertension headaches can be prevented by adequate sleep, rest, massages and a healthy diet.

Recommended Reading:

1. Pressure headaches - The most common types of headaches are also the most effectively treated with chiropractic care without the need for potentially...
2. There are Many Different Types and Causes of Headaches - Any irritation to the structure of the neck and head can lead to a person experiencing a headache. Furthermore, the...
3. Headache Neck Pain: Is it a Common Thing? - Headache neck pain is the most common neck pain, especially among teenagers and adults. Although some medical reports show that...
4. Headache Neck Pain: Is it a Common Thing? - Headache neck pain is the most common neck pain, especially among teenagers and adults. Although some medical reports show that...
5. What causes headaches? - Headache & its common causes: Medically termed as cephalgia headache is a condition in which a person may undergo mild...