How Cold Medicine Can Impact Your Heart
With the cold and flu season upon us, many of us will come down with some sort of respiratory infection in the coming months and may reach for over-the-counter medicines to treat the symptoms of cold or flu. But did you know that the medicine you take to relieve symptoms could put your heart at risk?
Respiratory infections add stress your heart due to inflammation and taking over-the-counter medicines could further impact your cardiovascular system. While the risks of taking cold and flu medications are minimal for people without heart disease, they can be harmful to those with heart disease. Two of the most commonly used types of OTC medicines can have a negative affect for those with heart disease.
Decongestants such as phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are one medication of concern for those with heart disease. They work by constricting blood vessels and making them narrower. While that’s helpful in clearing nasal congestion, it can also increase blood pressure, raise heart rate, and make your heart work harder. This can be particularly concerning for those who are sensitive to changes in blood pressure, such as patients with uncontrolled hypertension, heart failure, or increased risk of stroke.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to relieve the aches and pains associated with colds and the flu. For those with healthy hearts, short-term use of NSAIDs are well tolerated. However, research shows they are not always safe for those with heart disease and can increase the risk of heart attack. This type of medications works to increase the amount of sodium in the body, which raises blood pressure and increases fluid retention. The choice of NSAID, duration of use, and dosage all affect the impact to the body, so consulting with a doctor is important if you have existing heart disease or fall into a high-risk category.
Which medications are important to avoid?
For heart patients, decongestants are generally best avoided altogether, especially for those with uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart failure, or a history of heart attack or stroke. Rather than reaching for a decongestant, use an antihistamine or nasal saline sprays or rinses. If a decongestant must be used, use the lowest dose for the shortage duration possible.
NSAIDs taken for a short amount of time are often tolerated, but the choice of NSAID could be important. Talk to your doctor about which option is the safest for you, particularly if you are on blood thinners or other medications for heart disease or if you have been diagnosed with heart failure, heart attack, or stroke.
As always, rest and fluids are a wonderful treatment for mild to moderate colds and the flu. Help prevent seasonal illness by getting your annual flu shot, washing your hands regularly, and avoiding those who are sick. If you do come down with a respiratory infection, contact your doctor at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital for recommendations of the safest medicines to treat your symptoms.