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Even small increases in blood pressure—especially sustained ones—can significantly raise health risks.
That’s why medications, lifestyle changes, and careful monitoring matter so much.
Why Certain Pills Are Risky for People With High Blood Pressure
Many pills affect:
Blood vessel constriction
Fluid retention
Heart rate
Hormonal balance
For someone without hypertension, these effects may be minor. But for someone with high blood pressure, they can:
Raise readings unexpectedly
Reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medication
Increase cardiovascular risk
Doctors often see patients whose blood pressure remains high—not because their treatment isn’t working, but because another pill is quietly working against it.
- Common Pain Relievers (NSAIDs)
This is one of the most important categories doctors warn about.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include:
Ibuprofen
Naproxen
Certain prescription anti-inflammatories
Why doctors are concerned:
NSAIDs can cause the body to retain sodium and fluid, while also reducing kidney function in some people. This combination can lead to:
Increased blood pressure
Reduced effectiveness of blood pressure medications
Higher risk of heart and kidney complications
Doctors often advise people with hypertension to:
Avoid frequent or long-term NSAID use
Use alternatives when appropriate
Discuss pain management options with their healthcare provider
This does not mean never taking them—but it does mean being cautious.
- Decongestants and Cold Medications
Many cold and flu remedies contain decongestants designed to shrink swollen nasal passages.
Common ingredients include:
Pseudoephedrine
Phenylephrine
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