Allergy Medicine That Doesn't Affect Blood Pressure
Allergic reactions can cause a range of symptoms, from a mild rash to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Allergy medication can help alleviate these symptoms. However, if you have high blood pressure, you need to be careful when choosing allergy medication. Some allergy medications can increase blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with hypertension. In this article, we will discuss allergy medicine that doesn't affect blood pressure.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of your blood pushing against your blood vessel walls is consistently too high. This puts a strain on your heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including age, genetics, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Certain medications, including some allergy medications, can also increase blood pressure.
Allergy Medicine That Doesn't Affect Blood Pressure
When choosing allergy medication, it's important to select a medication that doesn't increase blood pressure. Here are some allergy medications that are safe for people with hypertension:
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common type of allergy medication that work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body in response to an allergen. Antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms of allergic reactions, such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Antihistamines that don't affect blood pressure include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine (Allegra).
Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are another type of allergy medication that can help alleviate symptoms of allergic reactions, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Nasal steroids work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. Nasal steroids that don't affect blood pressure include fluticasone (Flonase) and mometasone (Nasonex).
Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers are a type of allergy medication that work by blocking the effects of leukotrienes, chemicals released by the body in response to an allergen. Leukotriene modifiers can help alleviate symptoms of allergic reactions, such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Leukotriene modifiers that don't affect blood pressure include montelukast (Singulair) and zafirlukast (Accolate).
Precautions When Taking Allergy Medicine
While these allergy medications are generally safe for people with hypertension, it's still important to take precautions when taking them. Here are some tips:
- Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have high blood pressure.
- Read the labels carefully and look for warnings about high blood pressure or hypertension.
- Take the medication as directed and don't exceed the recommended dose.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly and report any changes to your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase blood pressure.
- Avoid activities that can increase blood pressure, such as strenuous exercise or hot baths.
Conclusion
Allergy medication can be a lifesaver for people with allergies. However, if you have high blood pressure, it's important to choose a medication that doesn't increase blood pressure. Antihistamines, nasal steroids, and leukotriene modifiers are all safe options for people with hypertension. Remember to always consult with your doctor before taking any medication and to take precautions when taking allergy medication.
