A unit manager of a 25-bed medical/surgical area receives a phone call from a nurse who has called in sick five times in the past month. He tells the manager that he very much wants to come to work when scheduled but must often care for his wife, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, can raise your blood pressure and heart rate. If you have high blood pressure, it's a good idea to check with your doctor or pharmacist to find out what's right for you. You can also try decongestant-free cold medicines, such as Coricidin HBP. For in-depth information, see WebMD's article on Decongestants and Antihistamines.
Overview. Strong over-the-counter cold medications help people make it through the cold and flu season, but some drugs can raise blood pressure. Individuals with hypertension or heart disease should choose medicines by the cold symptoms that they treat. Sneezing, coughing and runny noses can safely be treated. Drugs for nasal congestion, however, pose dangers. Purchasing combination cold formulas requires special attention to ingredients. Heart patients should use home remedies for stuffy nose symptoms and choose cold formulas that donât contain decongestants.