It's Topic Tuesday.

Today is Topic Tuesday at Aortic Hope.

Medical Monday started a discussion about cold and flu season and the possible impact being sick may have on your blood pressure. Today we wanted to remind you about how OTC (over the counter) medications may affect your blood pressure and heart rate as well. Remember, before you take any medication or supplement, clear it with your physician to make sure it will not have an adverse reaction with any medications you are presently taking or have an impact on your BP/HR.

👉 In the article "High blood pressure and cold remedies: Which ones are safe?", Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D. from the Mayo Clinic shares:

"Among over-the-counter cold remedies, decongestants cause the most concern for people who have high blood pressure. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness by narrowing blood vessels and reducing swelling in the nose. This narrowing can affect other blood vessels as well, which can increase blood pressure.

To keep your blood pressure in check, avoid over-the-counter decongestants and multi-symptom cold remedies that contain decongestants — such as pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, phenylephrine, naphazoline and oxymetazoline. Also, check the label for high sodium content, which can also raise blood pressure.

Instead:

-Choose a cold medication designed for people who have high blood pressure. Some cold medications don't contain decongestants. Avoid medications that have warnings on the label for people who have high blood pressure and those who take blood pressure medications.

-Take a pain reliever. To relieve a fever, sore throat or headache, or body aches, try aspirin or acetaminophen. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Motrin IB, Advil) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) can also contribute to high blood pressure.

-Use saline nasal spray. To relieve nasal congestion, try saline nasal spray. The spray can help flush your sinuses.

-Soothe your throat. To relieve a sore or scratchy throat, gargle with warm salt water or drink warm water with lemon juice and honey. Or try menthol lozenges.

-Drink plenty of fluids. Water, juice, tea and soup can help clear your lungs of phlegm and mucus.

-Increase the humidity in your home. Use a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer to moisten the air, which may ease congestion and coughing.

-Get plenty of rest. If you're not feeling well, take it easy.

-Call your doctor if your signs and symptoms get worse instead of better or last more than 10 days."

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