Best Cough Medicine To Take With High Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, it can be difficult to find over-the-counter cough medicine that won’t raise your blood pressure even more. Fortunately, there are many cough medicines on the market that are safe to take with high blood pressure. In this article, we’ll discuss the best cough medicine to take with high blood pressure, along with some tips to help you manage your symptoms.
What Causes Coughing?
A cough is a reflex that helps clear your airways of mucus, irritants, and other foreign particles. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Allergies
- Cold or flu
- Asthma
- Acid reflux
- Postnasal drip
- Smoking
When you have high blood pressure, coughing can be especially problematic because it can cause your blood pressure to spike. This is why it’s important to find a cough medicine that is safe to take with high blood pressure.
What to Look for in Cough Medicine if You Have High Blood Pressure
When shopping for cough medicine, look for products that are labeled “safe for people with high blood pressure” or “doesn’t raise blood pressure.” You should also read the active ingredients list to ensure that the medicine doesn’t contain any decongestants or other ingredients that can raise your blood pressure.
Some cough medicines that are safe to take with high blood pressure include:
1. Dextromethorphan (DM)
DM is a cough suppressant that is commonly found in over-the-counter cough medicines. It works by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. DM is safe to take with high blood pressure, but it can cause drowsiness or dizziness.
2. Guaifenesin
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen mucus in your lungs, making it easier to cough out. It is also safe to take with high blood pressure.
3. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies, but they can also help relieve coughing caused by postnasal drip. Some antihistamines, such as cetirizine and loratadine, are safe to take with high blood pressure.
Tips to Manage Coughing with High Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing coughing, here are some tips to help manage your symptoms:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Use a humidifier or take a steamy shower to help loosen mucus.
- Avoid triggers that can make your cough worse, such as smoke and allergens.
- Get plenty of rest.
- If your cough persists for more than a week, see your doctor.
Conclusion
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing coughing, it’s important to find a cough medicine that is safe to take. Look for products that are labeled “safe for people with high blood pressure” or “doesn’t raise blood pressure,” and avoid cough medicines that contain decongestants or other ingredients that can raise your blood pressure. If your cough persists for more than a week, see your doctor.