Blood Pressure Medicine That Doesn T Make You Cough
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health problem that affects millions of people in the United States. It can lead to serious health complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Blood pressure medication is often prescribed to help lower blood pressure, but one of the most common side effects of these medications is a persistent cough. This can be frustrating and uncomfortable for individuals who are trying to manage their blood pressure. Fortunately, there are blood pressure medications available that don't make you cough.
What Causes Coughing with Blood Pressure Medication?
The most common blood pressure medications that cause coughing are ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) and ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers). These medications work by relaxing blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure. However, they can also cause a dry, persistent cough in some people. This cough is thought to be caused by the buildup of a substance called bradykinin, which can irritate the lungs and cause coughing.
Blood Pressure Medications That Don't Make You Cough
If you are experiencing a persistent cough as a side effect of your blood pressure medication, it's important to talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe a different medication that doesn't cause coughing. Some blood pressure medications that are less likely to cause coughing include:
- Calcium channel blockers
- Diuretics
- Beta-blockers
Calcium channel blockers work by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate. Diuretics help to reduce the amount of fluid in the body, which can help to lower blood pressure. Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart.
Other Ways to Manage High Blood Pressure
In addition to taking medication, there are other lifestyle changes that can help to manage high blood pressure. These include:
- Reducing salt intake
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking
These lifestyle changes can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications from hypertension.
The Bottom Line
If you are experiencing a persistent cough as a side effect of your blood pressure medication, talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe a different medication that doesn't cause coughing. Additionally, making lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake and exercising regularly can help to manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.