high blood pressure headaches
High Blood Pressure Headaches
Many people worry when they start to have regular headaches, if high blood pressure could be the cause. Most of the time this is not the case. Usually people who have high blood pressure do not experience any warning symptoms. For this reason high blood pressure is referred to as “the silent killer.” Sometimes headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and/or nausea can be symptoms of this condition.
How do you know if you have high blood pressure?
Its simple, all you need to do is get your blood pressure checked by your doctor. High blood pressure would be considered anything higher than 140/90.
High blood pressure can be managed through medication and also reduced by minimizing one’s risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, weight gain, stress, and increasing physical activity.
High Blood Pressure – A Problem Aggravated by Excessive Use of Pain Killers
Did you know that headaches and migraines can be a warning indicator that there is increased risk for other health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, and heart attacks? Unfortunately most people do not know that these conditions are only made WORSE by overusing OTC painkillers, which increase risk of higher blood pressure and cholesterol as well.
How Does This Happen?
Certain over the counter pain killers like Advil and Aleve reduce blood flow to one’s kidneys resulting in an increased build up of fluid in the body, which then increases your blood pressure.
Who is Most at Risk? Frequently Men.
As many men consider headaches a “female” problem – out of both groups they are most likely to self medicate with OTC pain medications. Many will not think to visit a doctor for headaches and migraines, and most will be unaware that long term usage of OTC medications like Advil and Aleve can actually damage the body. In fact Aleve (naproxen sodium) can actually increase one’s risk of heart attack or stroke. Naproxen sodium will also interfere with high blood pressure medication.
What Are Safe Alternatives?
First of all, make sure that if you are experiencing frequent headaches and migraines that you visit your doctor for a health examination. At this time. make sure that your blood pressure is in a healthy range. If you doctor does not think that you suffer from any dangerous or life threatening conditions which could be causing your pain, you can now focus on healthy methods for reducing discomfort. Consider the use of natural pain relievers like ice packs, heating pads, and acupuncture (now covered by many insurance plans.) If you still wish to use a OTC pain killer, consider using Tylenol or generic acetaminophen in moderate amounts (keep in mind this frequently will not relieve the symptoms of migraines.) If you are taking blood pressure medications, you should also be aware that taking Aspirin will interfere with these medications.
If you are concerned you may be affected by high blood pressure, or are self treating your headaches with excessive intake of over the counter pain medications, please call your doctor and schedule a physical.
