Approximately one-third of adult Americans have high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHBLI). Many remain unaware of their elevated blood pressure for years because of the lack of symptoms. Hypertension increases the risk of a variety of health problems, including stroke, heart failure, coronary heart disease and kidney failure. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthier diet and regular exercise, may help to control high blood pressure, but when appropriate, doctors can prescribe one or several medications to treat this condition.
Diuretics
These medications, sometimes known as water pills, work to control high blood pressure by reducing the total volume of blood in the body. They achieve this by helping the kidneys to get rid of excess sodium and fluids via the urine. Diuretics are frequently the first high blood pressure medications selected by doctors. The American Heart Association notes that diuretics may cause a decrease in the levels of potassium in your body, and that your doctor may recommend eating potassium-rich foods or taking potassium supplements.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers achieve their effects by lowering the heart rate and the total volume of blood pumped. The American Heart Association warns that in people with diabetes, beta blockers might interfere with the heart's normal reaction to a drop in the blood sugar level. They should therefore monitor their blood-sugar levels closely after beginning treatment with beta blockers.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors
The NHBLI explains that these medications act by limiting the production of angiotensin, a chemical which causes narrowing of the arteries. When the body produces less angiotensin, blood vessels relax and dilate and blood pressure decreases. This class of medication is often the preferred choice for people with diabetes because these drugs do cause changes in blood sugar levels. Some people taking ACE inhibitors might experience side effects such as rash, itching and a dry cough.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
These drugs, also referred to as ARBs, do not affect the production of angiotensin. They work to reduce its effects by blocking the body's chemical receptor sites for angiotensin. This reduces its ability to cause narrowing of the blood vessels. According to the Mayo Clinic, these antihypertensives are frequently helpful for people with other conditions including kidney failure, coronary heart disease or heart failure. Side effects may include cough, headache and dizziness.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers, also known as calcium antagonists or CBCs, impede the entry of calcium into the heart muscle and the muscle cells of the blood vessels. Calcium in the heart muscle causes it to beat more forcefully, and a decrease in the amount of calcium causes a corresponding decrease in the strength of the heart's contractions, allowing blood pressure to drop. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that some of the possible side effects of CBCs are headache, drowsiness and upset stomach.
Alpha blockers
Doctors may prescribe alpha blockers for patients who have taken other blood pressure medications but whose blood pressure still remains above the desired level. These antihypertensives work by reducing the nerve impulses that cause narrowing of the blood vessels. Some taking these drugs may experience dizziness, heart palpitations, dry mouth and headaches, according to the FDA.
Vasodilators
Vasodilators, or blood vessel dilators, act upon the muscles in the blood vessel walls, relaxing them and allowing them to open up. Blood flows through the vessels more freely, and blood pressure comes down. As noted by the FDA, some of the side effects you may experience when taking these medications are dizziness, upset stomach, headache and increased growth of body hair.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What is High Blood Pressure?
- Mayo Clinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)--Treatments and drugs
- American heart Association: High Blood Pressure Medications
- Food and Drug Administration: High Blood Pressure--Medicines to Help You
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: How Is High Blood Pressure Treated?
