Headaches and Oxygen Deprivation in Hypertension Patients

Headache, cerebral hypoxia?

I have hypertension, with a highest recorded reading of 210 mmHg/110 mmHg.
However, I did not feel unwell at that time.
A doctor at Dongyuan Hospital said it is hereditary and that I need to take medication long-term to control it.
Recently, for the past three months, I have been experiencing frequent headaches, high eye pressure, and during meals, I feel as if my brain is lacking oxygen, with a sensation that I might have a stroke, which is very distressing.
The doctor at Dongyuan performed blood tests and an electrocardiogram, stating that there were no issues.
I requested a CT scan, but he said it was unnecessary and that medication would suffice.
However, the medication only lowers my blood pressure and does not alleviate my headaches or the sensation of lack of blood supply.
I am reaching out to Dr.
Yeh to help identify the cause and treat my symptoms, as I am still young and have a wife and children.
This condition causes me pain and worry about the possibility of having a stroke.
Please help me.
Thank you.

Afu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/08/26

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

Hypertension is a significant risk factor for stroke, so it is essential to take your medication on time to control your blood pressure.
However, headaches are not necessarily related to blood pressure; there are many potential causes for headaches, including stress and brain tumors, among others.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation and neurological examination to determine the underlying cause.

Reply Date: 2002/08/26

More Info

Understanding the relationship between headaches, hypertension, and oxygen deprivation is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications. Your situation, characterized by high blood pressure readings and recurrent headaches, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, hypertension, particularly when it reaches levels as high as 210/110 mmHg, can indeed lead to various neurological symptoms, including headaches. However, it's essential to understand that not all headaches in hypertensive patients are directly caused by high blood pressure. The relationship can be complex, where high blood pressure can cause headaches, but headaches can also lead to elevated blood pressure due to pain and stress responses.

In your case, the headaches you are experiencing could be tension-type headaches or migraines, which are common in individuals with high stress or anxiety. The sensation of your brain feeling deprived of oxygen, especially during meals, could be linked to several factors, including anxiety, muscle tension, or even dietary habits that may affect blood flow and oxygenation.

It's also worth noting that while your blood tests and ECG results came back normal, this does not entirely rule out other underlying issues that could be contributing to your symptoms. For instance, conditions such as sleep apnea, which is common in individuals with hypertension, can lead to intermittent oxygen deprivation during sleep, resulting in daytime fatigue and headaches.

Regarding treatment, it is crucial to manage your blood pressure effectively. While medications like those prescribed to you (e.g., Exforge and Concor) are essential for controlling hypertension, they may not address the headaches directly. Non-pharmacological approaches can also be beneficial. These include lifestyle modifications such as:
1. Dietary Changes: Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in sodium and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage blood pressure and overall health.

2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and potentially alleviate headache frequency and intensity.

3. Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage stress, which may reduce headache occurrences.

4. Hydration: Ensure you are adequately hydrated, as dehydration can also lead to headaches.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize good sleep practices to ensure you are getting restorative sleep, which can help with both blood pressure and headache management.

If your headaches persist despite these interventions, it may be worthwhile to consult a neurologist for further evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to rule out any structural issues or other neurological conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while hypertension can contribute to headaches and feelings of oxygen deprivation, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach to management. This includes effective blood pressure control, lifestyle modifications, and possibly further evaluation by a specialist if symptoms persist. Your concerns about the risk of stroke are valid, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your health effectively.

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