Calcium-channel blockers are a class of prescription drugs commonly used to treat medical conditions such as high blood pressure, angina, arrythmias and migraines. They work by decreasing the rate at which calcium flows into the heart and blood vessels, which then relaxes the blood vessels, according the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. In the case of high blood pressure, they are effective because blood pressure decreases when the blood vessels are relaxed. As with all medications, calcium-channel blockers can cause unwanted side effects. If you experience any rare or bothersome adverse effects of the drug, report them to your doctor.
Gastrointestinal Distress
One commonly reported side effect of calcium-channel blockers is heartburn or indigestion, according to the Texas Heart Institute. Less often, people experience upset stomach or nausea, or develop constipation as a side effect of the medication.
Flushing
Some people taking calcium-channel blockers may also experience flushing, or the feeling as though the skin is hot, according to MayoClinic.com. Flushing is most commonly experienced on the face and neck.
Fatigue
Calcium-channel blockers can cause unexplained fatigue, or users may feel more tired or sluggish than normal, according to the Texas Heart Institute.
Headaches
Headaches are another commonly reported side effect of calcium-channel blockers. Some people also experience dizzy spells. These side effects may dissipate over time as the body gets used to the effects of the medication, according to Consumer Reports. Frequent headaches associated with use of the medication should be reported to your doctor because it could signify a potential health problem caused by the drug. If you ever faint or lose consciousness while taking the medication, report that to your doctor as well.
Swelling
If you are taking a calcium-channel blocker, you may notice some mild and localized swelling. This is most commonly reported in the abdomen, feet and ankles, according to the Texas Heart Institute.
Breathing Difficulties
Breathing difficulties are a less commonly reported adverse effect of calcium-channel blockers. In particular, some users experience shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing spells, the Texas Heart Institute reports.
Tingling Sensation
Another less common side effect of these medications is a tingling sensation in the extremities, according to the Texas Heart Institute. In these cases, people may feel numbness in the feet and hands.
Heart Effects
Some people report experiencing a change in their normal heart rate when taking calcium-channel blockers. In these cases, it may seem as though the heart is beating abnormally fast or abnormally slow, the Texas Heart Institute reports. If you ever experience chest pain while taking the medication, you should immediately contact your doctor.
Jaundice
Jaundice---the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes---is a rare side effect of calcium-channel blockers. However, it should be reported to your doctor promptly because it could signify a liver problem, the Texas Heart Institute warns.
Skin Rashes
Another rare side effect of a calcium-channel blocker is an unexplained skin rash, according to MayoClinic.com. Again, this should be reported to the prescribing doctor to ensure no health issues have developed because of the medication.
Gum Changes
Taking calcium-channel blockers can cause your gums to become swollen and enlarged. At first, the change may be minimal. In fact, your dentist may notice it in a routine checkup before you do. Over time, though, it can cause the gums to bleed or erode, according to Consumer Reports.
Fever
In rare cases, people taking calcium-channel blockers have reported developing a fever, according to the Texas Heart Institute. This fever is not typically associated with any other signs of illness or infection and should be reported to your doctor.
