Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure is a measurement of the force of blood as it flows through blood vessels. Individuals with narrow blood vessels have higher blood pressure readings. Hypertension is a serious condition and can cause heart disease or stroke. Many individuals are unaware that they have high blood pressure, but headache, confusion, nausea, visual disturbances and seizures can all indicate that blood pressure is higher than normal. Different medications are available for treating high blood pressure.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers affect the muscle cells in the arterial walls and cause the blood vessels to relax and dilate which reduces blood pressure. Some calcium channel blockers can slow heart rate, eliminate angina and control arrhythmia. Common side effects of calcium channel blockers include constipation, nausea, headache, rash and sexual dysfunction
Diuretics
Diuretics cause the body to remove excess water and sodium through urination which lowers blood pressure. If blood pressure is not decreased with diuretics, other blood pressure medications may be prescribed in combination with a diuretic. Diuretics can cause weakness, increased thirst, increased urination, dehydration and dry mouth. Due to excess fluid loss, a diet high in potassium or potassium supplements may be needed.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers work by blocking epinephrine and slowing down the heart rate. This reduces the work of the heart and reduces blood pressure. Side effects include dizziness, sexual problems, drowsiness, fatigue, cold hands and feet, edema and depression. Beta blockers should be taken with meals or after meals to reduce the probability of side effects. Heart rate should be monitored daily when taking beta blockers to ensure heart rate does not become dangerously slow.
Angiotension-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors)
Angiotension II constricts blood vessels. ACE inhibitors block the enzyme necessary for converting angiotensin I into angiotension II, thus widening the blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. ACE inhibitors are a good choice of medication for individuals with diabetes, asthma or who have had a heart attack. Side effects of ACE inhibitors include dry cough, rash and allergy-like symptoms. ACE inhibitors may also cause excess potassium in the body, especially in individuals with kidney problems.
Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists
Angiotension II receptor antagonists block angiotension II from binding to angiotension II receptors. Without angiotension II, blood vessels dilate, blood flows more easily through the blood vessels and blood pressure is reduced. Angiotension II receptor antagonists cause water and sodium to be eliminated through the urine which also reduces blood pressure. Angiotension II receptor antagonists can cause dizziness and raise potassium blood levels.
