Allergy Medicine That Doesn T Affect Blood Pressure
Allergy season can be a difficult time for those who suffer from allergies. The constant sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes can be unbearable. However, for those who also have high blood pressure, finding an allergy medicine that doesn’t affect their blood pressure can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many options available that can help alleviate allergy symptoms without raising blood pressure.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common allergy medication that works by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. Histamine is a chemical released by the body in response to allergens, which causes allergy symptoms. Antihistamines can be taken in pill form, as a nasal spray, or as eye drops.
While some antihistamines can cause a slight increase in blood pressure, most do not have a significant effect on blood pressure. Antihistamines that are less likely to affect blood pressure include loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec).
Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are another common allergy medication that works by reducing the inflammation in the nasal passages. Nasal steroids are available as a nasal spray and are often used to treat seasonal allergies, as well as year-round allergies.
Nasal steroids do not have a significant effect on blood pressure, making them a safe option for those with high blood pressure. Some common nasal steroids include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and triamcinolone (Nasacort).
Decongestants
Decongestants are a type of allergy medication that works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Decongestants are available in pill form and as a nasal spray.
However, decongestants can raise blood pressure, making them potentially dangerous for those with high blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking a decongestant. If your doctor approves, you can take a decongestant for a short period of time, but it’s important to monitor your blood pressure regularly.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a long-term treatment for allergies. Immunotherapy works by exposing the body to small amounts of allergens over time, which helps the body build up a tolerance to the allergen.
Immunotherapy is a safe option for those with high blood pressure, as it does not affect blood pressure. However, immunotherapy is a long-term treatment and may take several months to be effective.
Conclusion
If you suffer from allergies and high blood pressure, finding an allergy medication that doesn’t affect your blood pressure can be a challenge. However, there are many options available that can help alleviate allergy symptoms without raising blood pressure. Antihistamines and nasal steroids are safe options for those with high blood pressure, while decongestants should be used with caution. Immunotherapy is also a safe option for long-term allergy treatment. If you have high blood pressure and are unsure which allergy medication is right for you, it’s important to talk to your doctor.