Blood Pressure Medication
Question: I have been diagnosed with high blood pressure. I am well aware of the repercussions of having high blood pressure. However, I would like to know what medications are available for high blood pressure and what the side effects are there when using these medications.
Answer: When a person is diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension), a doctor will recommend certain lifestyle changes depending on high the blood pressure levels. This is the first step taken, rather than prescribing medicines straight away. Lifestyle changes include regular exercise, proper diet, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake among other steps towards healthy living. Medication is prescribed only if lifestyle changes do not lower blood pressure. Various blood pressure medications are available to suit the patient and the severity of the blood pressure condition. These medications fall into categories such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and renin inhibitors. The suitability of each drug depends on individual case prognosis.
Diuretics
One of the main contributors to hypertension is excessive salt intake. Sodium is a naturally occurring substance in the body. The kidneys control sodium production as well as the clearance process. Excessive salt intake through the diet inhibits the kidneys ability of flushing out excess salt in the body. This causes sodium to build up in the bloodstream. Sodium draws in moisture, and thereby increases the fluid volume. High fluid volume in the blood increases pressure on the heart. Diuretics flush out excess water and sodium, bringing down blood pressure. There are three types of diuretics and each works on the kidney in a different manner. Therefore, a doctor will prescribe the most suitable diuretic. Thiazide diuretics are prescribed to lower blood pressure. They work by increasing urination. Side effects of thiazide diuretics include dizziness, light-headedness, loss of appetite, stomach upset, itching, headache, etc. Severe side effects include weakness, pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps etc. All side effects must be medically examined.
Beta-Blockers
Another high blood pressure medication type that is prescribed is the beta-blockers. They work by reducing nerve impulses to the heart and blood vessels. This lowers heartbeat, thereby, reducing blood pressure. The most commonly prescribed beta-blockers are metoprolol, nadolol and penbutolol. Side effects of the medication include blurred vision, dizziness, light-headedness etc. Severe side effects such as confusion, depression, sore throat and easy bruising and bleeding must be medically attended.
ACE-Inhibitors
Angiotensin II hormone causes narrowing of blood vessels. ACE-Inhibitors prevent the formation of the hormone. The reduction in the narrowing of blood vessels eases the flow of blood, reducing blood pressure. Commonly prescribed ACE-Inhibitors include losartan, olmesartan and valsartan. Side effects of this blood pressure medication include coughing, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, weakness etc. Rare side effects include kidney failure, allergic reactions, decreases white blood cell count etc.
Calcium Channel Blockers
This high blood pressure medication works by preventing calcium entering the heart and blood vessels. This reduces the pressure on the arteries bringing a significant drop in blood pressure. Amlodipine, diltiazem, and nifedipine, are commonly prescribed calcium channel blockers. Side effects include constipation, nausea, rash, oedema, headache, hypotension etc.
Renin Inhibitors
Blood pressure is regulated with the help of the renin enzyme. Renin inhibitors block this action relaxing and widening arteries in order for smooth blood flow to help lower blood pressure. Common side effects include coughing, dizziness, headache, diarrhea etc. Severe side effects include hives, allergic reactions and trouble breathing.
Every blood pressure medication is not the same. Each one is targeted for a specific reason depending on the severity of the condition, other medical complications in the person, age, health level etc. Similarly, the side effects too will vary. However, all unusual side effects must be medically examined to avoid complications.
High blood pressure is an extremely dangerous medical condition. Individuals with high blood pressure have to be extremely careful in order to avoid heart attacks and strokes. Most often, high blood pressure goes unnoticed as it is asymptomatic. Therefore, individuals with poor lifestyles, and those suffering from various medical conditions must make sure to have their blood pressure checked frequently.