Cold Medicine To Use With High Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, you may be wondering if it's safe to take cold medicine. The answer is yes, but you need to be careful about which medications you choose. Some cold medicines can raise your blood pressure or interact with your blood pressure medication, which can lead to serious health problems. In this article, we'll take a look at cold medicine options that are safe to use with high blood pressure.
Understanding High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition that affects millions of people in the United States. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high, which can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. High blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and not getting enough exercise.
Cold Medicine Options for High Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, it's important to choose cold medicine options that won't raise your blood pressure or interact with your blood pressure medication. Here are some safe options:
Decongestants
Decongestants are a common ingredient in many cold and flu medications. They work by shrinking the blood vessels in your nasal passages, which can help relieve congestion. However, decongestants can also raise your blood pressure, so it's important to choose a medication that is labeled "safe for people with high blood pressure." Some safe options include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE).
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are another common ingredient in cold and flu medications. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical in your body that causes allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Antihistamines can also help relieve congestion. Some safe options for people with high blood pressure include loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec).
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants are a common ingredient in cold and flu medications. They work by blocking the cough reflex, which can help relieve coughing. Some safe options for people with high blood pressure include dextromethorphan (Robitussin) and guaifenesin (Mucinex).
Tips for Taking Cold Medicine with High Blood Pressure
When taking cold medicine with high blood pressure, it's important to follow these tips:
- Read the label carefully and choose a medication that is labeled "safe for people with high blood pressure."
- Don't take more than the recommended dose.
- Avoid cold medicine that contains alcohol, as it can raise your blood pressure.
- Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter cold medicine.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking cold medicine.
Conclusion
If you have high blood pressure, it's important to choose cold medicine options that won't raise your blood pressure or interact with your blood pressure medication. Decongestants, antihistamines, and cough suppressants are all safe options, but it's important to read the label carefully and follow the recommended dosage. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications.
