High blood pressure is a common problem for older adults. In fact, about two out of every three people over the age of 60 have it.
It is important to treat high blood pressure to lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. But while medicines can help, they may also cause side effects, especially in older people who may be more sensitive.
Blood pressure medicines work in different ways. Some help blood vessels relax and open up. Some slow down the heart. Others help remove extra fluid from the body, making it easier for the heart to pump. These medicines can work well, but they don’t affect everyone the same way, and some people may feel worse instead of better.
There are a few main types of blood pressure drugs, each with their own side effects.
Diuretics, also called water pills, help the body get rid of salt and water. This lowers blood pressure but can cause people to pee more often. This may lead to dehydration or a loss of important minerals.
Older adults may then feel tired, dizzy, or even have problems with their kidneys. Dizziness is especially risky because it can lead to dangerous falls.
ACE inhibitors make it easier for blood to flow by relaxing blood vessels. But they can also cause a dry cough or too much potassium in the body. Too much potassium may be bad for the kidneys and can make other health problems worse.
Beta-blockers help the heart beat more slowly and with less force. Side effects can include feeling tired, cold hands and feet, and poor circulation. In some older people, beta-blockers may even cause confusion or sadness, which might be mistaken for normal aging.
Calcium channel blockers keep calcium from entering the heart and blood vessels. This helps lower blood pressure, but may cause swollen ankles, constipation, headaches, or fast heartbeats. Constipation can be a serious issue for older adults if not treated.
ARBs, or angiotensin receptor blockers, stop blood vessels from tightening. These drugs are often well-tolerated but can still cause dizziness or raise potassium levels.
Even with these side effects, it is still very important for older adults to treat high blood pressure. Doctors usually start with a low dose and increase it slowly to avoid problems. Regular check-ups are key so that doctors can see how the medicine is working and make changes if needed.
Besides taking medicine, making healthy lifestyle changes can help too. Eating better, moving more, and maintaining a healthy weight can lower blood pressure. These changes can also help people need less medicine.
By knowing the possible side effects, older adults and their caregivers can make better choices. Working closely with a doctor helps find the best plan—one that keeps blood pressure under control and helps the person feel well every day.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and natural coconut sugar could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about How to eat your way to healthy blood pressure and results showing that Modified traditional Chinese cuisine can lower blood pressure.
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