Lisinopril is a medication used in the treatment of congestive heart failure, high blood pressure and to prevent heart attacks. While it is accompanied by common side effects, a variety of side effects are categorized according to the condition for which lisinopril is prescribed. Before taking this drug, it is important for you to be aware of any and all side effects you may encounter.
Common Side Effects
Drugs.com states that the most common side effects you may experience while taking lisinopril include coughing, feeling depressed, mild skin rash accompanied by itching and dizziness. Upon beginning lisinopril, you may feel drowsy or experience headaches. This medication may also affect your digestive system, resulting in upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
Once your body has become acclimated to lisinopril, these side effects should subside. If they persist or become worse, speak to your doctor; you may require an adjustment in your dose.
Side Effects in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure
If you are taking lisinopril due to congestive heart failure, your side effects may vary from those taking it for high blood pressure or heart attack prevention. Included in these side effects are chest pain, an extreme drop in your blood pressure and dizziness. You may also suffer from increased upper respiratory infections and frequent headaches. Abdominal pain and diarrhea are more common, as is the development of an unexplained rash. If you have any questions about the side effects you are experiencing, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
Side Effects in Patients With High Blood Pressure
Patients taking lisinopriol for high blood pressure may suffer more side effects than patients in the other two groups. Fatigue is among the most common, as is body weakness. If you feel faint or dizzy when standing after lying or sitting, you may be experiencing a drop in your blood pressure; this may indicate that your dose of lisinopril is too high.
Digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also be noticed, along with headaches and an increase in upper respiratory infections such as the common cold.
For men on this medication for high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction may be a problem. This is a condition causing an inability to achieve or maintain an erection when sexually stimulated or aroused.
Side Effects When Preventing Heart Attacks
According to an article on eMedTV.com, those taking lisinopril to prevent a heart attack may suffer from low blood pressure or kidney problems.
According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of low blood pressure include feeling dizzy or light-headed, losing your ability to concentrate, nausea and breathing that becomes rapid or shallow. You may also become depressed, notice an increase in thirst or urination or suffer from blurred vision.
The National Kidney Foundation states that the most common signs of kidney failure include increased urination that is difficult or painful, blood in your urine and high blood pressure. Your hands and feet may swell, and your eyes may become puffy. If any of these symptoms present themselves, your doctor may perform a blood urea nitrogen and creatine blood test. If your kidney function is reduced, excess waste will build up in your blood and be detected by this test.
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