ASK AN EXPERT: How do medicines for hypertension affect my health?

Experiencing headache coupled with fatigue or difficulty breathing? Some people may brush this off as a normal reaction to the stress of daily life. Unbeknownst to many, this could actually indicate a more severe problem like high blood pressure or hypertension.

According 2017 data from the Department of Health, over 12 million Filipinos are suffering from high blood pressure. Unfortunately, over half those with this diseases are not aware that they already hypertensive.

Thanks to advancements in science, managing high blood pressure is easier. There are different types of medication available for everyone. However, doctors strongly advise against home remedies and self-medication.

Cardiologist Dr. Raul Lapitan in an interview with PinoyMD explained that in addition to a person's age and biological sex, other factors like lifestyle and medical history must first be examined before treatment can be administered.

Patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes and kidney problems may need special care.

"Mahirap sabihin na itong gamot na ito ay magaling para sa lahat," Lapitan said.

PinoyMD listed the common medication for hypertension and briefly discussed their effects on the body.

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

ARBs may be known to some as telmisartan or losartan. These drugs work by blocking the effect of the angiotensin II, a chemical in the body that narrows the blood vessels.

If a blood vessel is narrow, the heart works harder to pump blood, leading to high blood pressure.

The side effect of ARBs include dizziness and coughs. Other side effects listed by WebMD are muscle cramps or weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, confusion, irregular heartbeat, insomnia and / or sinusitis.

Diuretics

Diuretics helps lower the blood volume by encouraging frequent urination. This is why the medicine is sometimes referred to as "water pills."

But Lapitan said taking diuretics may lead to high uric acid. Prolonged use may also adversely affect a patient's hearing.

In addition to this, WebMD also lists dehydration as a side effect for diuretics. Be sure to take plenty of fluids to replenish what you're losing while taking this drug.

Beta blockers

Beta blockers work by countering the effects of the hormone adrenaline by slowing down the patient's heart rate. Like ARBs, beta blockers help widen the blood vessels.

Dizziness is one of the more common side effects of beta blockers. Because it slows down the heart rate, mild side effects like fatigue, cold hands, head ache, and loss of sex drive may also be expected.

Although the side effects of all three types of medication are considered mild, patients are advised to regularly update their doctor about their condition. Frequent blood tests may be necessary to identify any potential problems caused by ARBs, diuretics, or beta blockers.

A handful of patients with hypertension have turned to super foods like garlic to help manage their conditions, but Lapitan warned that there are no scientific studies that prove that super foods on their own can lower blood pressure.

Even with especially designed medication, Lapitan said that a patient must also lead a healthier lifestyle to help manage their condition. This includes avoiding excessively oily, sweet, and salty food; regular exercise; and saying goodbye to bad habits like smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. — LA, GMA News