Allergy Medicine That Doesn't Raise Your Blood Pressure
Dealing with allergies can be quite challenging, but finding the right medication can be even more frustrating. If you have high blood pressure, it can be even more difficult to find an allergy medication that won't raise your blood pressure. The good news is that there are several allergy medications that won't cause an increase in blood pressure. In this article, we'll explore some of the best options available.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a medical condition where the blood pressure in your arteries is consistently elevated. Your blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), and it consists of two numbers: the systolic pressure and the diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure is the top number, and it measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The diastolic pressure is the bottom number, and it measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. If your blood pressure consistently reads 140/90 mm Hg or higher, you may be diagnosed with high blood pressure.
Allergy Medications That Don't Raise Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, you'll want to avoid allergy medications that contain decongestants, as they can raise your blood pressure. Decongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nose, which can increase blood pressure. However, there are several allergy medications that don't contain decongestants and won't raise your blood pressure.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common type of allergy medication that work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that your body releases during an allergic reaction. Histamine can cause a variety of symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Antihistamines come in two forms: first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can cause drowsiness and other side effects, while second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are less likely to cause drowsiness and other side effects.
Intranasal Steroids
Intranasal steroids are a type of allergy medication that work by reducing inflammation in your nasal passages. They come in the form of a nasal spray and can be used to treat a variety of allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. Intranasal steroids are generally considered safe for people with high blood pressure.
Cromolyn Sodium
Cromolyn sodium is a type of allergy medication that works by blocking the release of histamine and other chemicals that can cause allergy symptoms. It comes in the form of a nasal spray or an inhaler and can be used to treat a variety of allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. Cromolyn sodium is generally considered safe for people with high blood pressure.
Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists
Leukotriene receptor antagonists are a type of allergy medication that work by blocking the effects of leukotrienes, which are chemicals that your body releases during an allergic reaction. They come in the form of a pill and can be used to treat a variety of allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. Leukotriene receptor antagonists are generally considered safe for people with high blood pressure.
Conclusion
If you have high blood pressure, it's important to choose an allergy medication that won't raise your blood pressure. Antihistamines, intranasal steroids, cromolyn sodium, and leukotriene receptor antagonists are all good options that won't cause an increase in blood pressure. It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, especially if you have high blood pressure or other medical conditions.
