What Type of Headache Is Caused by High Blood Pressure?

Headaches can happen at any age and to any ethnic group.

There are several types of headaches caused by high blood pressure (hypertension). Headaches associated with hypertension can happen in children, men, women and any ethnic group.

Migraines

Studies show hypertension can cause migraines and vice versa; migraines can trigger hypertension. To figure out what's happening to you, ask your doctor to treat your hypertension with medication. If your migraines don't resurface, your problem may be solved; however, if your blood pressure rises during a migraine, you may need to treat it with both migraine and blood pressure medication.

Pregnancy Preeclampsia

Swollen feet during pregnancy can be a sign of Preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to stroke in pregnant mothers. Preeclampsia can occur with first pregnancies, multiple pregnancies, pregnant women older than 35, a history of diabetes in the mother or family, high sodium diet, and obesity. Symptoms include hypertension, a dull or throbbing headache, swelling of the hands, feet and ankles. If you are pregnant and have these symptoms, contact your OBGYN right away.

Malignant Hypertension

Malignant hypertension is caused by very high blood pressure and swelling of the optic nerve. This type of disorder is most common in young African American adults but can occur in all adults and children as well. Only 1 percent of people are affected by this type of blood pressure disorder. It is very important that people get the proper diagnosis with this affliction since malignant hypertension is a medical emergency. Symptoms include headache, anxiety, nausea or vomiting, blurred vision and chest pain associated with a crushing or pressing sensation.

Possible Stroke

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for stroke. The biggest warning sign of a stroke is a sudden severe headache for no known reason. Other symptoms include slurred speech, difficultly seeing in one or both eyes and loss of balance. Call 911 immediately if this is happening to you or someone close to you.

Treatment

Always consult your doctor if you have concerns regarding your headache and high blood pressure. Hypertension is a serious health problem that should be treated. Treatment may include blood pressure medication, a healthy diet and exercise.

References

• Malignant Hypertension
• Hypertension Headache
• Preeclampsia