Are Frequent Headaches a Sign of High Blood Pressure?

Frequent headaches can be a sign of high blood pressure, but not always. According to the American Heart Association, headaches may not be present even in people with dangerously high blood pressure.

Headache Findings

• The American Heart Association states that people with high systolic blood pressure (where the top number of the blood pressure reading is high) have 40 percent less headaches.

No Symptoms

• According to Columbia University Medical Center, people with high blood pressure often show no symptoms, including headache. Those with dangerously high blood pressure may have flushed skin, mood swings, dry mouth and problems sleeping.

Speculation

• Mood swings and sleep problems can be contributing factors to triggering a headache or migraine. This may be why some people with high blood pressure also get headaches.

Beta Blocker Connection

• According to "Migraines For Dummies," high blood pressure medication like calcium channel blockers or beta blockers are often prescribed for people with migraines, no matter what their blood pressure is.

Warning

• The American Heart Association warns that anyone with high blood pressure who gets a sudden bad headache or coordination problems, speech problems, numbness or tingling in the limbs may be having a stroke and should call an ambulance immediately.