Can Allergy Medicine Raise Blood Pressure? Ask Our Experts

You’re sick of the sneezing, sore throats and runny nose that can accompany allergy season in Raleigh. Reaching for allergy medicine–either over-the-counter or prescription–can provide relief.

But what if you have high blood pressure? Can allergy medicine raise your blood pressure? 

There’s no need to scramble for answers: our internal medicine doctors near you at Raleigh Adult Medicine have all the answers you need. We’ll outline some of the most common types of allergy medicines and what you should know if you have issues with high blood pressure. 

Do you have high blood pressure? If so, it’s vital that this condition is monitored because failure to treat the problem could cause more serious health issues like heart disease, kidney failure and stroke. At Raleigh Adult Medicine, we specialize in treating high blood pressure and other chronic diseases like diabetes and high cholesterol. We’re also taking new patients! Just contact us for an appointment.

Can Allergy Medicines Raise High Blood Pressure? A Closer Look at Decongestants

Have you ever had an over-the-counter medication with pseudoephedrine? This is commonly found in medicines like Sudafed and Actifed. These work by constricting the small blood vessels located in your nose. However, when your blood vessels are constricted, your heart has to work much harder to pump your blood throughout your body. As a result, your blood pressure rises. Likewise, phenylephrine can have a similar effect.

Looking for Safer Allergy Treatment Options? We’ve Got Your Answers

Antihistamines– such as Zyrtec, Benadryl and Allegra– are generally safer options if you have high blood pressure. Just be sure when purchasing over-the-counter allergy medicines that they do not have decongestants in them. 

Still not sure what option is best for you? Don’t worry, just speak with our internal medicine physicians in Raleigh—we’re taking new patients and would love the opportunity to treat your allergies. 

For Long-Lasting Allergy Relief, Consider Immunotherapy Treatment in Raleigh

Have you heard the term “allergy shots?” This refers to immunotherapy, and it can be the solution to your troublesome symptoms. Immunotherapy gradually introduces your body to a diluted version of what causes your allergies. 

There is a “build-up” phase where your body is gradually exposed to more and more of the allergen. The goal is to “teach” your body to adjust to these allergens and therefore, eliminate or reduce symptoms. We offer this service at our Raleigh Medical Group location.

These are just some of the allergens that immunotherapy can treat:

• Pet dander
• Molds
• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Foods

Am I a Candidate for Immunotherapy?

We believe that every patient should be treated as an individual, so we’ll have to evaluate your particular case to find effective solutions. However, in general, the best immunotherapy candidates are:

• Those who cannot completely avoid allergens
• Those for whom allergy medication has proven ineffective
• Those who have to use multiple allergy medications to treat their symptoms
• Those who are generally in good health

Concerned About Your Allergy Medicine Raising Your Blood Pressure? We’ve Got the Information You Need

Are you tired of waiting on doctors only to find that they’re not listening to you or not giving you the quality time you deserve? You won’t find that at Raleigh Adult Medicine. 

Our board-certified internal medicine physicians in Raleigh can provide prescription medication that will keep your blood pressure at safe levels. If you have a question about over-the-counter options, we’ve got the answers.

See Why We’re Recognized for Medical Excellence

Don’t let allergy symptoms get you down! Talk to our doctors about safe and effective ways to manage both your allergy symptoms and blood pressure. Schedule an appointment today.

The information in this article and the other articles on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider.