Any form of medication can cause side effects, and high blood pressure (HBP) medications are no different. However, many people do not have side effects from taking hypertension drugs, and the side effects are often gentle. Still, it's essential to stay informed and work closely with your doctor to manage any side effects. To help you identify common side-effects associated with medication, we talk about some of them below.
Before we get into the various side effects of taking HBP medication, we need to emphasize that one should not stop taking the medication without consulting their doctor first. This can be extremely dangerous as stopping medication can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure.
Each form of HBP medication works a little differently. Factors related to the patient can also influence the kind and intensity of side effects seen. As an informed patient, you must read up about the type of medication you are taking and it's possible side effects. As a place to start from, here is a brief overview of the most common side effects noted from HBP medication consumption.
There are many types of medication used to treat high blood pressure, each with its side effects.
• Diuretics: Diuretics flush extra water and salt (in the form of sodium) from the body. Side effects include excess urination, caused due to the increase in the water content leaving the body. It may also cause weakness and fatigue. Leg cramps are also a common symptom associated with diuretics due to decreased potassium levels in the body. Diuretics can also cause erectile dysfunction in some men.
• Beta-Blockers: Beta-blockers cause your heart to beat less vigorously and more slowly. This form of medication has its host of side effects associated with it; many patients show asthmatic symptoms, have cold hands and feet, show depressive tendencies, and have trouble sleeping.
• ACE Inhibitors: ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) Inhibitors reduce the formation of a hormone responsible for narrowing blood vessels. This helps relax blood vessels, reducing problems associated with HBP. The common symptoms associated with this kind of medication are a persistent dry cough, skin rashes, and taste loss. If you experience any of these side effects, the doctor may prescribe an alternate medication type for HBP.
• Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs): This form of medication also works similarly to ACE Inhibitors. A common side effect is a dizziness.
• Alpha-Blockers: This medication reduces nerve impulses to blood vessels, allowing more comfortable blood flow. The side effects associated with alpha-blockers are dizziness, lightheadedness, and fast heart rate. People taking Alpha-Blockers may feel a sudden weakness when standing up or getting up in the morning due to reduced blood pressure.
Though this list is not exhaustive, these are some of the most common High Blood Pressure medication classes that cover a majority of side-effects associated with HBP medication. There is no need to suffer in silence; please communicate whatever symptoms you feel to your doctor. Today there is a whole host of drugs to help treat HBP, and the doctor can help you find the right fit for you while minimizing side effects.
