Best Allergy Medicine For Someone With High Blood Pressure
Allergies can be a nuisance, but if you suffer from high blood pressure, finding a safe and effective allergy medication can be challenging. Many over-the-counter allergy medications can raise your blood pressure or interact with your blood pressure medication. However, there are several options available that are safe for people with high blood pressure. In this article, we will discuss the best allergy medicine for someone with high blood pressure.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high. This can cause damage to your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure often has no symptoms and is diagnosed by measuring your blood pressure reading.
What are Allergies?
Allergies are a common condition in which your immune system overreacts to a substance that is normally harmless, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Allergies can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.
Best Allergy Medicine for Someone with High Blood Pressure
When choosing an allergy medication, it is important to look for one that does not raise your blood pressure or interact with your blood pressure medication. The following are the best allergy medications for someone with high blood pressure:
1. Steroid Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays are a safe and effective way to treat allergies without raising your blood pressure. They work by reducing inflammation in your nasal passages, which can help relieve symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Examples of steroid nasal sprays include Flonase, Nasacort, and Rhinocort.
2. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are another safe option for treating allergies when you have high blood pressure. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical released by your immune system during an allergic reaction. Examples of antihistamines include Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra.
3. Decongestants
Decongestants can provide relief from nasal congestion, but they can also raise your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, it is important to choose a decongestant that does not raise your blood pressure. Examples of safe decongestants include Sudafed PE and Afrin nasal spray.
4. Allergy Eye Drops
Allergy eye drops can provide relief from itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies. They work by reducing inflammation in your eyes. Examples of allergy eye drops include Pataday and Alaway.
Conclusion
If you suffer from high blood pressure and allergies, it is important to choose an allergy medication that is safe for you. Steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines, and allergy eye drops are all safe options for people with high blood pressure. If you need a decongestant, choose one that does not raise your blood pressure. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new medication.