My neck pains

Firstly, I will like to appreciate your efforts in your ASK THE DOCTOR column. I have serious pains in my cervical (neck) region for the past two years. In addition, I have High Blood Pressure for which I consume a lot of drugs. Kindly tell me the cause of my problem and what I can do to treat it. I am 53 years old.

Kazeem (by SMS)

It is likely that your High Blood Pressure could also be responsible for your persistent neck pains. While uncomplicated and well controlled hypertension can persist for years, even decades, without causing symptoms, complications of the condition begin to develop due to damage to the vascular system. Symptoms of complicated hypertension (high blood pressure) can include dizziness, shortness of breath, headache, and blurred vision. Other possible symptoms are nosebleeds, blood in the urine, fatigue, chest pain, and a pounding sensation in the neck, chest, or ears. In view of the above, it will be good for you to see a Medical Specialist for a proper review of the drugs you are currently taking. In addition, a cervical x ray should be done for more information about your complaint.