High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of people around the world and is one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke.
Many people know that eating too much salt, being inactive, smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and being overweight can raise blood pressure. However, a new study suggests that another factor may be quietly making blood pressure harder to control: medications that people take for completely different health problems.
Researchers from Harvard University found that many adults with high blood pressure may be taking medicines that can increase blood pressure without realizing it. Their findings suggest that about one in five people with hypertension use at least one medication that may contribute to higher blood pressure levels.
This discovery is important because high blood pressure is often called a “silent killer.” Most people do not feel any symptoms, even when their blood pressure is dangerously high.
Over time, uncontrolled hypertension can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, heart failure, and vision problems. Because of these serious risks, doctors often prescribe blood pressure medications and encourage healthy lifestyle changes to keep blood pressure under control.
The Harvard researchers found that some commonly used medicines may work against these efforts. These medications are often prescribed for pain, depression, inflammation, hormone-related conditions, allergies, colds, and weight management. While they can be very effective for treating those conditions, they may also have an unwanted effect on blood pressure.
One of the most common examples is a group of pain-relieving medicines known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. This group includes familiar medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
These drugs help reduce pain and inflammation, but they can also cause the body to hold on to extra salt and water. When this happens, blood pressure may increase and become more difficult to control.
Some antidepressants may also affect blood pressure. Certain medications used to treat depression and anxiety can change the levels of brain chemicals that influence heart rate and blood vessel function. As a result, some people may experience a rise in blood pressure while taking these medicines.
Hormonal medications can also play a role. Birth control pills and certain hormone therapies may affect how the body manages fluids and salt. This can lead to higher blood pressure in some individuals, especially those who already have hypertension or other risk factors for heart disease.
Steroid medications are another concern. These drugs are often used to treat inflammatory conditions such as asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. Although steroids can be highly effective, they may also increase blood pressure by causing fluid retention and other changes within the body.
Even common cold and flu medications may have an impact. Many decongestants contain ingredients such as pseudoephedrine, which work by narrowing blood vessels in the nose to reduce congestion. Unfortunately, these same effects can also narrow blood vessels throughout the body and temporarily raise blood pressure.
The researchers noticed that people who took these blood-pressure-raising medications often had higher blood pressure readings than those who did not. In many cases, they also needed stronger doses or additional blood pressure medications to achieve the same level of control.
This does not mean people should stop taking these medicines on their own. Many of them are important treatments that provide significant benefits. Suddenly stopping a prescribed medication can sometimes cause more harm than good. Instead, experts recommend discussing all medications with a doctor or pharmacist.
This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, vitamins, and dietary supplements. Healthcare professionals can review a person’s medication list and determine whether any products might be affecting blood pressure.
In some situations, there may be safer alternatives available. In others, doctors may simply monitor blood pressure more closely while the medication is being used.
Along with reviewing medications, healthy daily habits remain one of the most effective ways to manage blood pressure. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutritious foods can support heart health. Reducing processed foods and limiting excess salt can also make a difference.
Regular physical activity is another important tool. Even simple activities such as daily walking can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Managing stress through relaxation techniques, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga may also be helpful. Getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake are additional steps that can support healthy blood pressure levels.
Not everyone who takes these medications will experience a rise in blood pressure. Some people are more sensitive than others, and the effects can vary depending on age, health conditions, and the combination of medications being used. That is why regular blood pressure checks are so important.
The study serves as a reminder that managing high blood pressure is not only about taking blood pressure medicine. It also involves understanding how other medications may affect the body.
By staying informed, reviewing medications regularly, and working closely with healthcare providers, people can improve their chances of keeping their blood pressure under control and protecting their long-term health.
The research was conducted by scientists at Harvard University and highlights the importance of looking beyond traditional risk factors when treating high blood pressure.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that may increase high blood pressure risk, and drinking green tea could help lower blood pressure.
For more information about high blood pressure, please see recent studies about what to eat or to avoid for high blood pressure, and 12 foods that lower blood pressure.
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