Hypertension is a common chronic health condition that people tend to overlook as the damage inflicted on the body is usually insidious in the early stages. By the time you start experiencing symptoms, there is usually already damage from the exposure to prolonged untreated/poorly treated high blood pressure or grossly elevated blood pressure. So if your doctor gives you blood pressure medications, please be compliant with your medicine! Should you develop side effects, consult your doctor before adjusting your medications - you might need to change your dose or type of medicine. It is important not to stop your medicines without telling your doctor as it may lead to serious complications, such as kidney damage, stroke, heart attack, death.
There are different classes of antihypertensives. Each class will have its own benefits and potential side effects. Your doctor will choose the appropriate type for you - your age and comorbidities (eg. diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease) will also play a role in the decision made.
These are some commonly prescribed antihypertensives and their side effects:
- Calcium channel blockers (CCB) — e.g. amlodipine, nifedipine
> Leg swelling, headache, flushing, overgrowth of gum tissue
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) — e.g. enalapril, lisinopril, perindopril
> Cough, kidney impairment, raised potassium, rash, angioedema
3. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) —e.g. losartan
> Raised potassium, angioedema
4. Diuretics — e.g. hydrochlorothiazide
> Increased urination, electrolytes abnormalities, raised cholesterol levels, raised uric acid → gout attack
5. Beta-blockers — e.g. atenolol, bisoprolol
> Slow heart rate, fatigue, insomnia, low mood, raised triglycerides
