Allergy Medicine That Doesn T Raise Your Blood Pressure
Allergies can be a nuisance, but they can also be dangerous, especially for those with high blood pressure. Many allergy medications can cause a spike in blood pressure, leading to complications for those already dealing with hypertension. Fortunately, there are allergy medicines available that won't raise your blood pressure. In this article, we'll explore the different types of allergy medicine and their effects on blood pressure.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies are a response of the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and certain foods. When the body encounters an allergen, it produces histamine, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. For some people, allergies can also cause a rise in blood pressure.
Types of Allergy Medications
There are several types of allergy medications available, including antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. Antihistamines block the effects of histamine and are the most common type of allergy medication. Decongestants help relieve nasal congestion, while corticosteroids reduce inflammation.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are available over-the-counter and by prescription. They come in several forms, including pills, liquids, and nasal sprays. Some antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can cause drowsiness and should be taken with caution. Others, such as loratadine (Claritin), have fewer side effects and are less likely to cause a rise in blood pressure.
Decongestants
Decongestants are available over-the-counter and by prescription. They come in several forms, including pills, liquids, and nasal sprays. Decongestants work by narrowing blood vessels, which reduces swelling in the nasal passages. However, this can also cause a rise in blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before taking a decongestant.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are available by prescription and come in several forms, including pills, nasal sprays, and creams. They work by reducing inflammation in the body. Corticosteroids are generally safe for people with high blood pressure, but they can have side effects, such as weight gain and increased appetite.
Allergy Medicine That Doesn't Raise Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, it is important to choose an allergy medication that won't raise your blood pressure. The following medications are generally safe for people with hypertension:
Loratadine (Claritin)
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that is less likely to cause drowsiness than older antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine. It is available over-the-counter and by prescription.
Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that is available over-the-counter and by prescription. It is less likely to cause drowsiness than older antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine.
Fluticasone (Flonase)
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid nasal spray that is available by prescription. It works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. It is generally safe for people with high blood pressure.
Conclusion
Allergies can be a nuisance, but they can also be dangerous for those with high blood pressure. It is important to choose an allergy medication that won't raise your blood pressure. Antihistamines such as loratadine and cetirizine, as well as corticosteroids such as fluticasone, are generally safe for people with hypertension. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about allergy medication and your blood pressure.