Best High Blood Pressure Medicine With Less Side Effects
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health condition that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high, which can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Fortunately, there are many medications available to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of these complications. However, some of these medications can come with unwanted side effects. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best high blood pressure medicines with less side effects.
1. ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors are a type of medication that work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the amount of water and salt in the body. This helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. ACE inhibitors are generally well-tolerated and have fewer side effects than other blood pressure medications.
Some common side effects of ACE inhibitors include cough, dizziness, and fatigue. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. In rare cases, ACE inhibitors can cause more serious side effects such as kidney problems or high potassium levels in the blood.
2. Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers are another type of medication that can help lower blood pressure. They work by blocking the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This helps to relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow.
Calcium channel blockers are generally well-tolerated and have fewer side effects than other blood pressure medications. Some common side effects of calcium channel blockers include dizziness, headache, and swollen ankles. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. In rare cases, calcium channel blockers can cause more serious side effects such as low blood pressure or heart failure.
3. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are a type of medication that work by blocking the action of a hormone called angiotensin II. This hormone can cause blood vessels to narrow, which can increase blood pressure. By blocking the action of angiotensin II, ARBs help to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
ARBs are generally well-tolerated and have fewer side effects than other blood pressure medications. Some common side effects of ARBs include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. In rare cases, ARBs can cause more serious side effects such as kidney problems or high potassium levels in the blood.
4. Thiazide Diuretics
Thiazide diuretics are a type of medication that work by reducing the amount of salt and water in the body. This helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease and stroke.
Thiazide diuretics are generally well-tolerated and have fewer side effects than other blood pressure medications. Some common side effects of thiazide diuretics include dizziness, headache, and increased urination. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. In rare cases, thiazide diuretics can cause more serious side effects such as low blood pressure or kidney problems.
Conclusion
If you have high blood pressure, it's important to work with your healthcare provider to find the best medication for you. While all blood pressure medications have potential side effects, these four medications are generally well-tolerated and have fewer side effects than other options.
Remember to always take your medication as prescribed and talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.