Then, you’re going through your day with a healthy feeling. The next moment your head is feeling like it’s been weighed down by a large bag of rocks. Headaches are not uncommon however, they can cause disruption to your daily life.
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The million-dollar question is: why continue to suffer from headaches?
A variety of environmental and lifestyle issues could cause headaches. (It could be due to that salami sandwich you ate for lunch or the imminent storm.) If you have hypertension or high blood pressure (or hypertension) You might be wondering whether there’s an association.
The quick answer, according to cardiologists Luke Laffin, MD, is usually. Doctor. Laffin explains what you should know if you suffer from high blood pressure as well as headaches.
When does high blood pressure cause headaches?
The reality is, the doctor. Laffin says, slightly elevated blood pressure isn’t a cause of headaches for most people.
Although your blood pressure is an excellent indicator of your health and potential risk of certain illnesses If you have moderate (stage 1.) or mild (stage two) hypertension shouldn’t cause headaches.
“The majority of people do not have signs whatsoever of elevated blood pressure” states Dr. Laffin. However, he says there is a chance that, when your blood pressure rises to an uncharacteristically excessive level, then you might be experiencing headache-like symptoms.
“If you experience an intense, sudden headache that is significantly more severe than normal and the blood pressure of your rising it is recommended that you seek medical care,” stresses Dr. Laffin.
It’s crucial to pay careful on any fluctuations within your blood pressure as it could be an indication of a larger issue such as stroke. Be sure to be aware of the warnings of your body and speak to your healthcare professional in the event that your blood pressure is rising in a significant way and isn’t reducing.
What can a headache triggered by a rise in blood pressure look like?
There’s not a single study of high-quality showing that a headache caused by the increase in blood pressure is different than a normal headache as Dr. Laffin notes.
He also explains that it’s sometimes difficult to determine what’s the cause of the issue.
“Another aspect to be aware of regarding headaches as well as blood pressure, is it’s rarely the blood pressure that causes the headache” states Dr. Laffin. “It could be the reverse opposite. Sometimes it’s a chicken and an egg situation. It’s hard to tell what happens first. The headache can trigger an increase in blood pressure.”
The spike in blood pressure is impacting the body’s system, it could be experiencing other symptoms in conjunction with headaches, such as:
“If you experience a sudden increase of blood pressure this raised number does not suggest that you should seek out a doctor,” Dr. Laffin states. “But If it’s associated with something that’s not familiar, like severe headache, extreme chest pain or shortness in breath, then it’s time to take a look.”
How can you treat a headache?
If you suffer from hypertension, it is important be cautious about the treatment you select, particularly when you’re taking blood pressure medication.
Monitor your diet
Diet can be a cause of headaches that affect about 1 out of 5 people. However, the list of possible factors including artificial sweeteners, to pickles, to red wine is lengthy. It’s recommended to keep a food journal to see if any food items trigger headaches.
Medicines available over-the-counter
If you’re experiencing headaches that are becoming unbearable, your first thought could be to search for a painkiller. Be aware that if taking medications for high blood pressure Acetaminophen or aspirin are the most effective options according to Dr. Laffin says. Consult your physician about alternatives to prescription or over-the-counter medications to ensure that they’re safe for you.
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