High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is very common in older people. In fact, nearly two out of three adults over the age of 60 have it.
Managing high blood pressure is important because it can help prevent heart disease and stroke, which are serious health problems.
Medicines can help lower blood pressure, but they can also have side effects. This is especially true for older adults, whose bodies may react more strongly to treatment. Not all medicines work the same for everyone, and what helps one person may not help another.
There are several types of medicines used to lower blood pressure. Each type works in a different way and can have different side effects. The main types include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers, or ARBs.
Diuretics, also known as “water pills,” help the body remove extra salt and water. This lowers blood pressure, but it can also make people urinate more often. For older adults, this can lead to dehydration and the loss of important minerals. It can also make kidneys weaker, cause tiredness, and lead to dizziness, which increases the risk of falling.
ACE inhibitors relax the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. This helps lower blood pressure.
However, they can sometimes cause a dry cough that doesn’t go away, increase the amount of potassium in the blood, and in rare cases, lead to kidney problems. These issues can be more serious for older people who already have other health conditions.
Beta-blockers lower blood pressure by slowing down the heart. Some people may feel tired, have cold hands and feet, or experience poor blood flow. In some older adults, beta-blockers can also cause confusion or symptoms that look like depression, which may be mistaken for normal aging.
Calcium channel blockers stop calcium from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This helps the blood vessels relax. These medicines work well, but they can cause a racing heartbeat, swollen ankles, constipation, and headaches. Constipation is a big concern for older adults and, if left untreated, can lead to serious problems with the bowels.
ARBs block a chemical in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. They are often easier for people to handle, but they can still cause dizziness or increase potassium levels. This can be dangerous if not watched closely.
Even though there are side effects, it is very important to treat high blood pressure. If it is not managed, it can lead to strokes, heart attacks, or kidney problems. Doctors often begin treatment with a low dose of medicine and increase it slowly. This helps reduce the risk of side effects.
In addition to medicine, lifestyle changes can help a lot. Eating healthy foods, staying active, and keeping a healthy weight can all lower blood pressure. These changes can sometimes lower the need for medicine and improve overall health.
Understanding how blood pressure medicines work and their possible side effects can help older adults and their families make better choices. By working closely with their doctors, they can find the best way to control blood pressure and stay healthy and comfortable.
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