What are the Most Common Hypertension Medication Side Effects?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a potentially dangerous condition that can seriously raise your risk for heart attack and stroke. For this reason, many doctors prescribe medication to their patients diagnosed with hypertension, to keep blood pressure in check and reduce the risk of many other health issues. However hypertension medication side effects are not uncommon and many patients find they have to try a number of different drugs before they find one they can tolerate well. This article will go over some of the most common hypertension medication side effects to watch out for.

Drowsiness Drowsiness is one of the most common hypertension medication side effects that can occur with almost any drug prescribed for this purpose. Many patients find that taking the medication before bed helps to alleviate daytime drowsiness. If you find this side effect to be a problem for you, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosing schedule so you are not taking the medication during the day any more than absolutely necessary.

Dizziness and Light-Headedness This is another one of the more common hypertension medication side effects that occur with most high blood pressure drugs. Some patients find that they must rise more slowly when getting up from a seated position or awaking in the morning. It is also important that you do not exercise to vigorously in very hot weather or drink to excess, since both of these activities can exacerbate the effects.

Headaches This is one of the least comfortable hypertension medication side effects, and frequently one that doctors will prescribe additional medication to treat. You can do your part to reduce headaches by exercising regularly and practicing deep breathing exercises. Another way to combat these hypertension medication side effects is to take a hot bath or apply a cool compress to the affected area.

Digestive Issues These hypertension medication side effects can take on a whole lot of symptoms, from constipation to an upset stomach and diarrhea. Specific symptoms will depend in part on the type of medication for pulmonary hypertension or common hypertension that you are taking. In some cases, taking the medication with meals will alleviate the problem. Constipation troubles can often be relieved with modifications to the diet that include more fiber through fresh fruits and whole grains.

Sensitivity to Sunlight It is also important to note that many experience hypertension medication side effects that involve sensitivity to sunlight. If you are taking one of these drugs, it is a good idea to avoid sunlight during the hottest part of the day. It is also important to wear protection like sunscreen and sunglasses without fail when outdoors.

There are many hypertension medication side effects to deal with, but in most cases, the benefits of these drugs far outweigh these issues. Patients must work with their doctor to find the medication that works the best for them with the fewest hypertension medication side effects possible.