1. Medicate to Lower High Blood Pressure
Doctors use a variety of medications to lower high blood pressure. They may prescribe a single drug or a combination of medicines depending on several factors, including your age, ethnicity (some ethnic groups react differently to drugs), other underlying health issues and your history with other blood pressure medications. Beta-blockers are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for lowering high blood pressure.
2. Beta-Blockers to The Rescue
Beta-blockers influence the way your body reacts to specific nerve impulses. In the case of high blood pressure (HBP), beta-blockers reduce the strength and speed of your heart's contractions. As a result, your heart requires less oxygen and your blood pressure lowers. This prescription drug may be taken orally, by either capsule, tablet or liquid, or it can be injected. Common beta-blockers include Inderal, Lopressor, Tenormin, Corgard and Blocadren. When taken as dispensed, the results of this medication will become apparent within weeks. Beta-blockers, however, are not a cure-all for high blood pressure. While they do help control the problem, other action may be necessary, such as maintaining a healthy weight and eliminating particular foods from your diet. Always check with your physician before implementing any dietary changes.
3. Be Mindful of Side Effects
Call your doctor if you experience any of these side effects while taking beta-blockers to lower your high blood pressure: difficulty sleeping, depression, exhaustion, asthma-like symptoms, cold extremities and a slow heart rhythm. When taken by diabetics, beta-blockers may camouflage low blood sugar indicators and prevent your heart rate from elevating as a result of your sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar level vigilantly. If your levels drop routinely, the amount of diabetes medicine may need adjusting.
4. Follow Doctor's Orders
Take your medication as prescribed. Never discontinue or disrupt your schedule without first asking your doctor. Oftentimes health issues become critical if beta-blockers are halted unexpectedly. The risk of heart attack also is greater.
5. Exercise Caution
Be aware of the following if you are taking beta-blockers to lower your high blood pressure. Other medications of any kind should not be taken in conjunction with a beta-blocker without your physician's consent. They may elevate your blood pressure. Beta-blockers may affect the results of diagnostic tests. Make medical professionals, including dentists, aware of your medications before they perform any tests or procedures. Individuals taking these drugs who experience lethargy, light-headedness or dizziness should not operate a vehicle or heavy machinery. Those who generally experience chest pain during exercise or physical activity may not when using beta-blockers. Ask your doctor to recommend a safe level of exertion. Enhanced sensitivity to cold may be a factor in those suffering from circulatory problems.
