High blood pressure or hypertension is considered as a silent killer that only have a few noticeable symptoms of its own. The early stage of high blood pressure only has a few symptoms but as the condition progresses over time and reaches the advanced or life-threatening stage, one of the symptoms of chronic high blood pressure include headaches and related issues.
It is important to note that over time, high blood pressure can contribute to an enlarged heart and compromised vascular system. If the individual suffers from chronic headaches or abrupt onset headaches, it is vital to seek medical attention. Remember that headaches can be an indication of hypertension and other health issues.
Head pain
The headaches are experienced by the individual as pressure and pain all over the head, neck and face with external or internal compressing sensations. The feeling of warmth in the head and oftentimes hot flushes can be felt during headaches along with pressure in the sinus areas in the face. In some individuals, they describe the feeling as if the head is about to shatter.
High blood pressure headaches can also include visual symptoms such as auras and images similar to floaters due to compression on the eyes as well as eye soreness in and behind the eyeballs. There is also swelling of the retina which results to blurry vision as well as sensitivity to light.
Audio sensations
Severe high blood pressure headaches can be accompanied by the pulsating sound that seems to be hammering in the ears. There is also rushing sounds and high-pitched or bustling sound heard in the ears and can be felt all over the head.
Dizziness and vertigo
The symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, disorientation and vertigo can be experienced along with high blood pressure headaches. They are felt most often when the individual rises from a seated or lying position. An individual suffering from these symptoms should be careful not to fall from being off balance.
What are the associated symptoms?
The high blood pressure headaches can have associated symptoms which include those that manifest at the same time and related to the condition. Take note that the headaches can be accompanied by facial flushing, nose bleeding, erratic heartbeat felt in the chest and at the pulse points.
Nausea and vomiting can also occur along with the headaches with shortness of breath, restlessness and fatigue. It is important to note that high blood pressure can cause the brain to swell, thus resulting to vomiting, nausea as well as drowsiness, worsening headache, seizures, confusion, sleepiness and even coma.
An individual should a schedule an appointment with a doctor for proper assessment once high blood pressure is suspected. This will ensure a proper diagnosis and as well as start appropriate treatment options.