Dizziness and Hypertension Headache
Dizziness is a commonly reported symptom of systemic hypertension, particularly in older adults. Recent studies suggest that people with high blood pressure may be more likely to experience dizziness or vertigo, especially when blood pressure levels rise significantly. However, it is important to note that while dizziness can occur alongside hypertension headaches, it is not specifically considered a symptom of hypertension headaches. The connection between high blood pressure and dizziness is still being explored in clinical research.
Blood pressure and Hypertension Headaches
Mild hypertension is defined by a systolic blood pressure reading between 140 to 159 mmHg and a diastolic reading between 90 to 99 mmHg. Research indicates that individuals with mild hypertension may experience a higher prevalence of headache symptoms compared to those with normal blood pressure levels.
Blood pressure readings are recorded as two numbers: the systolic (top number) measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the diastolic (bottom number) measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is typically less than 120/80 mmHg.
How are Hypertension Headaches Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hypertension headaches involves a thorough assessment to differentiate them from other common headache disorders, such as migraine headaches, cluster headaches, or tension-type headaches. A healthcare professional will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any history of high blood pressure, frequent headaches, or other neurological disorders.
Diagnostic tests typically include regular blood pressure monitoring to detect patterns of elevated readings. In cases where severe hypertension is suspected, further diagnostic tests may be required to rule out organ damage or assess for hypertensive crisis.
Clinicians will also evaluate headache symptoms, such as throbbing pain, visual disturbances, and associated symptoms like nasal congestion or chest pain. Understanding when headaches occur – particularly if they’re worse in the morning – can also provide important diagnostic clues.
At Sydney Migraine and Headache Clinic™, our experienced clinicians go beyond traditional diagnostic methods by assessing the cervical spine and brainstem. This helps us determine whether hypersensitivity in these areas may be contributing to your headache symptoms, offering a more comprehensive approach to hypertension headache treatment.
Treatment Options for Hypertension Headaches
There are a variety of treatment options available for managing hypertension headaches, many of which focus on controlling blood pressure and reducing the frequency of headache episodes. For some patients, calcium channel blockers may be prescribed as they help relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure, potentially easing associated headache pain. Similarly, preventive medications may be recommended to reduce the occurrence of chronic headaches that can result from ongoing blood pressure issues.
However, it’s important to note that over-reliance on certain medications, particularly pain relievers, may lead to medication overuse headaches, which can worsen symptoms over time. For this reason, a careful and balanced treatment plan is essential.
At Sydney Migraine and Headache Clinic™, we take a unique approach. We focus on identifying and addressing the underlying cause of your hypertension headaches, rather than just managing symptoms. By targeting dysfunctions in the cervical spine and brainstem, we aim to provide long-term relief without relying solely on medications – helping our patients avoid the cycle of ongoing medication use and its associated risks.