Cough Medicine That Doesn't Raise Blood Pressure
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear your airways of irritants. Sometimes, coughing can become persistent and disruptive, and that's when cough medicine comes in handy. However, if you have high blood pressure, you might be concerned about the effects of cough medicine on your blood pressure. It's essential to choose a cough medicine that doesn't raise your blood pressure levels.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force of blood against your artery walls is too high. This condition can damage your blood vessels, heart, and other organs over time. The exact cause of high blood pressure is unknown, but several factors can increase your risk of developing it. These factors include:
- Age
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Being overweight or obese
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Stress
- Excessive salt intake
- Alcohol consumption
Types of Cough Medicine
There are two types of cough medicine: expectorants and suppressants. Expectorants help thin mucus, making it easier to cough up. Suppressants, on the other hand, reduce the urge to cough.
Expectorants
Expectorants are cough medicines that help thin and loosen mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough up. They work by increasing the amount of fluid in your airways, which helps break up the mucus. Some common expectorants include guaifenesin, ipecacuanha, and ammonium chloride.
Suppressants
Suppressants are cough medicines that reduce the urge to cough. They work by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. Some common suppressants include dextromethorphan and codeine. However, suppressants can also cause side effects, such as drowsiness and constipation.
Cough Medicine That Doesn't Raise Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, you should avoid cough medicines that contain decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. These ingredients can raise your blood pressure levels and cause other side effects, such as insomnia, anxiety, and nervousness.
Instead, you should opt for cough medicines that contain only expectorants or suppressants without decongestants. Some common cough medicines that don't raise blood pressure levels include:
- Guaifenesin: This expectorant is found in many over-the-counter cough medicines, such as Mucinex and Robitussin.
- Dextromethorphan: This suppressant is found in many over-the-counter cough medicines, such as Delsym and Robitussin DM.
- Benzonatate: This suppressant is available by prescription only and is found in Tessalon.
- Codeine: This suppressant is available by prescription only and is found in some cough medicines, such as Cheratussin AC.
Conclusion
If you have high blood pressure, it's essential to choose a cough medicine that doesn't raise your blood pressure levels. Avoid cough medicines that contain decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, as they can raise your blood pressure levels and cause other side effects. Instead, opt for cough medicines that contain only expectorants or suppressants without decongestants, such as guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, benzonatate, and codeine.