(For more, see the What is being tested? section.) A hemoglobin test may be used to: Screen for, diagnose, and measure the severity of anemia (low RBCs, hemoglobin and hematocrit) or polycythemia (high RBCs, hemoglobin and hematocrit) Monitor the response to treatment of anemia or polycythemia.
Calcium channel blockers prevent calcium from entering into the heart muscle cells, and into the smooth muscle cells that cause blood vessels to constrict. This relaxing effect results in the dilation of blood vessels, and a reduced force of contraction of the heart muscle.
Calcium-channel blockers; Beta-blockers; Cardiac Glycosides; 1. Calcium channel blockers prevent or slow the flow of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells such as the heart and blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers are preferred if you have heart or lung disease. Common side effects are the heart beats too slowly, constipation, low blood pressure and heart failure. 14 âCalcium channel blockers weaken the heart and can damage the liver,â according to Dr. Julian Whitaker in his Health & Healing newsletter of October 2015.