Cold And Cough Medicine For High Blood Pressure
Cold and coughs are common illnesses that can affect anyone at any time of the year. However, if you have high blood pressure, it’s essential to be cautious about the medication you take for these common illnesses. Some cold and cough medications can worsen high blood pressure, while others may interact with your blood pressure medication. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about cold and cough medicine for high blood pressure.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is too high. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. High blood pressure can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.
Why Should You Be Careful About Cold and Cough Medications?
Cold and cough medications can affect your blood pressure in several ways. Some medications contain decongestants, which can narrow your blood vessels and increase your blood pressure. Decongestants work by reducing the swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. However, they also constrict blood vessels throughout the body, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
Some cold and cough medications also contain NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can interfere with your blood pressure medication. NSAIDs can reduce the effectiveness of your blood pressure medication and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.
What Cold and Cough Medications are Safe for High Blood Pressure?
Before taking any medication for your cold or cough, it’s essential to speak to your healthcare provider. They can advise you on which medications are safe for you to take based on your blood pressure and other health conditions.
Some cold and cough medications that are safe for people with high blood pressure include:
- Saline nasal sprays and drops
- Guaifenesin, which loosens mucus in the chest and throat
- Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant
- Antihistamines, which can relieve symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing
What Cold and Cough Medications Should You Avoid?
If you have high blood pressure, it’s essential to avoid cold and cough medications that contain decongestants and NSAIDs. These medications can increase your blood pressure and interfere with your blood pressure medication.
Cold and cough medications to avoid include:
- Pseudoephedrine
- Oxymetazoline
- Naproxen
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
What Else Can You Do to Manage Your Cold or Cough?
Aside from taking medication, there are other things you can do to manage your cold or cough:
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Get plenty of rest
- Use a humidifier to moisten the air in your home
- Gargle with saltwater to soothe a sore throat
- Elevate your head while sleeping to help relieve congestion
The Bottom Line
If you have high blood pressure, it’s essential to be cautious about the medications you take for your cold or cough. Some medications can increase your blood pressure and interfere with your blood pressure medication. Speak to your healthcare provider before taking any medication for your cold or cough.