- Although headaches are common and don't necessarily signal high blood pressure, if you suddenly start noticing a change in severity or frequency, you should check your blood pressure to rule out hypertension as the cause. Typically hypertension-related headaches will be most severe in the morning and then get less painful as the day progresses. Because headaches due to high blood pressure typically occur only when systolic pressure levels are above 200 or the diastolic pressures are greater than 110, if you think your headache might be hypertension-related, see a doctor immediately to begin measures to control your blood pressure.
- Some people with hypertension complain of vertigo or dizziness. According to a National Institute of Health (NIH) study, 20 percent of hypertensive patients notice signs of vertigo. The dizziness is related to vestibular conditions (related to the inner ear and balance) that can occur with higher blood pressures. Therefore, if you find yourself having bouts of unsteadiness or difficulty maintaining your balance, it could be due to high blood pressure, and you should have it checked.
- Untreated hypertension can damage the blood vessels of the eye. This can cause eye problems such as blurred vision.
- Nosebleeds can occur for many reasons, but if you suddenly see an increase in the number or severity of nosebleeds, it could be cause for concern, though whether nosebleeds and hypertension are related is still up for debate.
- Some people diagnosed with high blood pressure report having tinnitus or ringing in the ears. It may be caused by the increased pressure against the blood vessels of the inner ear (if not by continued exposure to loud noise or other damage to the nerves of the ear).
