High Blood Pressure During Colds: Causes and Concerns

High blood pressure due to a cold?

In December, my blood pressure was a bit high, so I visited a hospital outpatient clinic where the doctor prescribed two medications: Prazosin and Diltiazem.
During this period, my blood pressure readings consistently ranged from approximately 110-130/69-80.
By January 3rd, when my blood pressure stabilized, the doctor adjusted my medication to half a tablet of Diltiazem per day.
On January 4th, I caught a cold and visited a general outpatient clinic where I was prescribed Scanol 500 mg, Bromhexine 100 mg, Eaco 30 mg Dextromethorphan, Methylphenidate 25 mg (0.5 tablet), and Dexchlorpheniramine 2 mg (0.5 tablet).
After taking the medications for two days, my morning blood pressure reading reached 160/90.
On the second measurement, after taking a few deep breaths, it dropped to 125/84.

I would like to ask: 1.
Is it common for most people to experience a significant increase in blood pressure during a cold, especially with the recent drop in temperature to below 10 degrees Celsius? 2.
Do common cold medications prescribed in outpatient clinics have side effects that could cause an increase in blood pressure? Thank you.

Miss Zhang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/11

Dr. Li Han reply Cardiology

Hello, blood pressure can easily fluctuate due to various internal or external, physiological or psychological stressors.
Therefore, it may experience slight variations seasonally and even throughout the day.
When these fluctuating factors are present, there is a tendency to overestimate blood pressure, leading to overtreatment.
It is recommended that you first check whether your blood pressure measurements align with standard guidelines.
Additionally, consider extending your home monitoring period to at least one to two weeks.
If your readings consistently exceed 160/100 mmHg, please contact your trusted family physician for evaluation.
The Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about you.

Reply Date: 2024/01/11

More Info

High blood pressure, or hypertension, can be influenced by various factors, including environmental conditions, underlying health issues, and medications. Your inquiry about the relationship between cold weather, illness, and blood pressure is particularly relevant, especially during the winter months when many individuals experience fluctuations in their blood pressure readings.

1. Cold Weather and Blood Pressure: It is well-documented that colder temperatures can lead to an increase in blood pressure. When exposed to cold, the body responds by constricting blood vessels to conserve heat, which increases peripheral resistance and, consequently, blood pressure. This physiological response can be more pronounced in older adults or those with pre-existing hypertension. Therefore, even if an individual does not feel cold, their blood pressure can still rise due to the body's response to lower temperatures. In your case, the drop in temperature to below 10 degrees Celsius could be a contributing factor to the elevated blood pressure readings you observed.

2. Illness and Blood Pressure: When a person has a cold or any other illness, the body undergoes various stress responses. The release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline can lead to temporary increases in blood pressure. Additionally, symptoms such as fever, dehydration, and increased heart rate can also contribute to elevated blood pressure. It is not uncommon for individuals to experience higher blood pressure readings during illness, particularly if they are also experiencing anxiety or discomfort related to their symptoms.

3. Cold Medications and Blood Pressure: Many over-the-counter cold medications can have side effects that include increased blood pressure. For instance, decongestants, which are commonly found in cold medications, work by constricting blood vessels to reduce nasal congestion. This vasoconstriction can lead to an increase in blood pressure, particularly in individuals who are already predisposed to hypertension. The medications you mentioned, such as methylephedrine, are known to potentially raise blood pressure. Therefore, it is crucial to read labels and consult with a healthcare provider about the safety of these medications, especially for individuals with a history of hypertension.

4. Monitoring and Management: Given the fluctuations in your blood pressure readings, it is advisable to monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially during periods of illness or when taking new medications. If you notice consistently high readings, it may be necessary to consult your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and medication regimen. They may recommend adjusting your blood pressure medications or exploring alternative treatments for your cold that have a lower risk of affecting your blood pressure.

In conclusion, while it is common for blood pressure to rise during cold weather and illness, it is essential to be vigilant about monitoring your blood pressure and discussing any significant changes with your healthcare provider. Understanding the interplay between environmental factors, health status, and medication can help you manage your blood pressure effectively and maintain your overall health.

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