Decongestants and High Blood Pressure

Decongestants are one of the widely used medications in order to tackle the unpleasant symptoms of nasal congestion. These can be availed at health stores in the form of nasal sprays and oral pills. But what is to be known is that these over the counter drugs are not meant for one and all, especially for those who are suffering from high blood pressure or hypertension

Risks of Using Decongestants for People With Hypertension

People suffering from high blood pressure are always advised to read the labels on any over-the-counter medications before buying them. Having a blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg or greater, makes this fact even more important to follow. Decongestants are known to elevate is blood pressure. To add to this, these drugs also have the capability to interfere with hypertension medications. There are several medications for treating cold and flu which contain decongestants. Common examples include Ephedrine, Phenylephrine, and Phenylpropanolamine. Also, Synephrine, Oxymetazoline and Levmetamfetamine. Tetrahydrozoline, Propylhexedrine and Naphazoline are some other medications which contain decongestants and must be avoided by patients having high blood pressure.

The reason use of decongestants and high blood pressure do not go hand in hand is that these drugs are known to constrict blood vessels, which in turn elevates blood pressure in the body. Also, decongestants tend to give a kick to heart rate, thereby increasing it. According to the American Heart Association, prescribed decongestant drugs which can be taken for relieving nasal congestion, without affecting blood pressure levels, are Coriciden HBP(R), Chlor-Trimeton, Benadryl and Tavist-1.

Decongestant Side Effects

Apart from elevating blood pressure, these drugs tend to increase the stimuli of the body. We have discussed high blood pressure, but now you will know that insomnia and nervousness can also be caused by these drugs. Side effects of mild nature include loss of appetite, restlessness, headache, nausea, visual disorders and disorders of the urinary system. Repercussions which may be severe are worsening condition of heart diseases, after taking decongestants. Another common side effect which is noticed is known as rebound congestion. Here, the topical form of decongestants tend to become less effective with time, when used for more than 3 - 5 days. So in order to get the same effect, people administer extra doses, which in turn, creates a dependency. And this factor aggravates the congestion. Ultimately, the side effects will start showing up in the form of a permanent damage to sinus membranes, nasal dryness, stuffiness and even regular nosebleed.

Note that, any kind of OTC drug poses a threat to the health condition of a patient suffering from high blood pressure. Especially, medications which are targeted to treat illness such as cold and flu viruses or sinus, as these are common medications which contain decongestants. So, it is essential that such patients consult their doctors before going for such medications. This would help their physicians to prescribe them the right kind of medications which would, not only treat their complications but also prevent any further complications.