Women with high blood pressure, or hypertension, can help reduce their symptoms by taking a prescription medication called lisinopril. This medication is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, or ACE inhibitor for short, and works by relaxing the blood vessels in the body. When the blood vessels are relaxed, blood can flow more easily. Certain women, such as those who are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, should not take lisinopril because this medication can harm a developing fetus. Though the side effects of lisinopril on women typically mimic those experienced by men, women should discuss potential side effects with a doctor before beginning treatment.
Stomach Discomfort
Women taking lisinopril can develop stomach discomfort as a side effect of treatment. After taking this ACE inhibitor, women can experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, according to Drugs.com. Frequent bowel movements can contribute to additional side effects, including abdominal cramping or bloating. If a woman eats a small snack before taking a dose of lisinopril, she may reduce her risk of developing stomach discomfort side effects.
Skin Rash
An unusual skin rash can appear as a side effect of lisinopril treatment in women, MedlinePlus reports. Skin rash symptoms include red, irritated patches of skin that may arise on any region of the body. In certain cases, a skin rash may begin to flake or itch. Women who develop skin swelling, particularly across the face, hands, legs or feet, while taking this medication should seek immediate medical care.
Headache
Low blood pressure levels caused by lisinopril can lead to headache side effects in certain women. In clinical trials for this medication, nearly six percent of patients reported developing a headache, according to AstraZeneca, the pharmaceutical distributor of lisinopril. Headache pain is temporary and is typically mild to moderate in severity. Women who find headache discomfort bothersome can take an over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate this side effect.
Dizziness, Lightheadedness or Fainting
Episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness can arise in women treated with lisinopril. Such sensations can be uncomfortable and may contribute to instability or disorientation when a woman attempts to stand or walk around normally. Fainting or losing consciousness while taking lisinopril may indicate a severe reaction to this medication and affected women should seek prompt care from a doctor.
Cough
During clinical trials for this medication, approximately four percent of patients developed cough symptoms as a side effect of treatment, AstraZeneca reports. A recurrent cough can contribute to throat irritation or chest discomfort in certain women. Women who experience sudden or severe chest pain for any reason should contact a doctor immediately, as this side effect of lisinopril can also be a sign of a heart attack.
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