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.
2. Decongestants. Many OTC cold, flu and allergy medications include decongestants, which can cause a rise in blood pressure and/or interfere with the effectiveness of some prescriptions. Do not take decongestants if you have high blood pressure or are taking medications that treat high blood pressure or heart conditions.