Is a Headache a Symptom of High Blood Pressure?

While headache is a possible symptom for high blood pressure, the condition often has no symptoms even when it reaches dangerously high levels. So it's wise to be informed of the risks, have your blood pressure checked regularly and practice a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Identification

• Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, is when blood is pumped too forcefully through the arteries and veins. If left untreated, high blood pressure can eventually lead to cardiovascular problems such as vascular weaknesses/scarring and greater risk of blood clots.

Symptoms

• High blood pressure is sometimes called "the silent killer" because it can have no noticeable symptoms, but some people do experience subtle signs such as headache or dizziness.

Misconceptions

• In years past, it was thought that headaches were common for people with hypertension, but recent medicine acknowledges that headaches and blood pressure are not necessarily linked. Headaches are not an accurate assessment of blood pressure health.

Diagnosis

• Everyone should have their blood pressure checked regularly during doctor exams. If you have hypertension risk factors such as family history or obesity, consider having your blood pressure checked more often. If you're experiencing regular headaches, blood pressure is just one possible cause.

Prevention/Solution

• Exercise regularly and eat healthfully, including low-fat protein, plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids while limiting your sodium intake. It's also important to quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption and reduce stress.