Are you suffering from Hypertension Headache?

Hypertension Headache Treatment

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common health condition that may contribute to the development of headaches. While the exact connection between hypertension and headache pain is not fully understood, clinical guidelines still recommend considering a patient’s headache history when assessing for hypertension – particularly because headaches are frequently reported during a hypertensive crisis.

Mild hypertension is typically defined by blood pressure readings between 140-160/90-99 mmHg. Research suggests that individuals within this range may be more likely to experience headache symptoms, especially those over the age of 75, where hypertension is more prevalent.

At Sydney Migraine and Headache Clinic™, we focus on identifying the true cause of your hypertension headache. Our experienced clinicians assess the cervical spine and brainstem for dysfunctions that may be triggering your headache symptoms. If we confirm this as the underlying cause, we commence treatment immediately. In 85-90% of our patients, significant improvement is seen within the first six sessions. Importantly, our approach is safe, gentle, non-invasive, and medication-free.

Ready to take control of your headache pain? Book an appointment and explore a tailored hypertension headache treatment plan designed to relieve symptoms and restore quality of life.

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Hypertension Headache - Sydney Headache & Migraine Clinic

Understanding Your Symptoms

What are the symptoms of Hypertension Headache?

Headaches associated with hypertension are often described as; ‘pulsating and throbbing’ and will often occur in the morning. However, it has been reported that hypertension can cause classic symptoms of Tension-Type Headache and Migraine

Common symptoms of Hypertension Headache:

Pulsating or throbbing headache pain
Shortness of breath
Nosebleeds
Flushing of the skin
Dizziness
Chest Pain

Other symptoms can include:

Morning headaches
Nausea and or Vomiting
Visual disturbances

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Understanding Your Headache

What is the cause of Hypertension Headache?

Earlier theories suggested that hypertension might cause headaches by stretching or distending the blood vessels. However, current research has not proven this link. Instead, evidence shows that sudden spikes in blood pressure and severely elevated readings (above 180/110 mmHg) are more commonly associated with hypertensive headaches. Additionally, up to 80% of patients with pheochromocytoma (a condition that raises blood pressure) experience episodic headaches.

Interestingly, many of the patients we see at Sydney Migraine and Headache Clinic present with hypertension headache symptoms without showing these classic signs of severe hypertension. In these cases, we conduct a thorough assessment of the upper cervical spine and brainstem to investigate whether dysfunction or hypersensitivity in these areas may be contributing to their symptoms.

Emerging research suggests that brainstem hypersensitivity might detect changes in blood pressure and respond abnormally, potentially triggering headache or migraine symptoms. This highlights the importance of a comprehensive evaluation to determine the true underlying cause of hypertension headaches.

Organise Your Initial Assessment

About The Assessment Stage

What To Expect During The Assessment

1. Comprehensive and in-depth examination

We instigate an in-depth assessment to identify all possible related factors that could be causing your headaches or migraines. The upper cervical spine, in particular, is thoroughly examined to identify possible issues.

2. Ligamental stability and vertebral arterial tests

We undertake careful examination of neck ligaments and vertebral arteries, ensuring only the highest standards of patient safety and comfort.

3. Temporarily reproduce your headache and migraine symptoms

As a part of the treatment process, we apply gentle and selective stress to the upper cervical spine in order to reproduce headache symptoms, which subside after 20-30 seconds. This helps to identify and treat the cause of your headaches.

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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.

I’ve tried it all, how can I fix my Hypertension Headache?

Treating Hypertension Headaches

At Sydney Headache & Migraine Clinic™, we often see patients who have explored a wide range of treatment options in search of relief from their hypertensive headaches. Many have adjusted their blood pressure medications or modified their diets with little to no lasting success. Others have sought help from chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, and osteopaths but found only temporary relief.

Our approach is different. We conduct a thorough assessment of the upper cervical spine and brainstem to determine whether dysfunction in these areas is contributing to your symptoms. If we identify this as the underlying cause, we can commence treatment straight away.

In 85-90% of our patients, we see significant improvement within the first six sessions. Most importantly, our treatment is safe, gentle, non-invasive, and medication-free – focused on addressing the root cause, not just managing the symptoms.