Cough And Cold Medicine With High Blood Pressure
Dealing with a cough and cold can be a real pain, especially if you have high blood pressure. When you have high blood pressure, you need to be careful about the types of medications you take, including cough and cold medicines. Some of these medicines can increase your blood pressure, which can be dangerous. So, what should you do if you have a cough and cold but also have high blood pressure? Keep reading to find out more.
Understanding High Blood Pressure
Before we dive into cough and cold medicine, let's first talk about high blood pressure. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high. This can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure is a common condition, affecting more than 100 million Americans. If you have high blood pressure, it's important to manage it carefully through lifestyle changes and medication.
The Dangers of Cough and Cold Medicine with High Blood Pressure
Now, let's talk about cough and cold medicine. Many over-the-counter cough and cold medicines contain decongestants, which can raise your blood pressure. Decongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nasal passages, which can also narrow the blood vessels throughout your body, including your arteries. This can cause your blood pressure to rise, which can be dangerous if you already have high blood pressure. In addition to decongestants, many cough and cold medicines also contain pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, which can also affect your blood pressure.
Safe Cough and Cold Medicine for High Blood Pressure
So, what should you do if you have a cough and cold but also have high blood pressure? First and foremost, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can recommend safe cough and cold medicines for you to take. In general, cough and cold medicines that do not contain decongestants are safe for people with high blood pressure. Look for medicines that contain only expectorants, which help to loosen and thin mucus, making it easier to cough up. You can also look for cough and cold medicines that contain guaifenesin, which is an expectorant that helps to thin mucus.
Other Tips for Managing a Cough and Cold with High Blood Pressure
In addition to taking safe cough and cold medicine, there are other things you can do to manage your symptoms when you have high blood pressure. Here are some tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Use a humidifier to keep the air moist
- Get plenty of rest
- Elevate your head with pillows to make breathing easier
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
- Avoid alcohol
Conclusion
If you have high blood pressure and a cough and cold, it's important to be careful about the types of medications you take. Decongestants and pain relievers in cough and cold medicines can raise your blood pressure, which can be dangerous. Talk to your doctor about safe cough and cold medicines, and consider using other remedies to manage your symptoms. With the right care, you can feel better and protect your overall health.