Do you feel tired, having taken your blood pressure medication? Fatigue is one of the potential symptoms of both high and low blood pressure. It is a feeling of tiredness and lack of energy that can interfere with daily activities. In this article, I will explore the links between blood pressure and fatigue, and discuss ways to manage blood pressure to reduce the risk of fatigue.
Why people with high blood pressure may feel tired
People with hypertension, or high blood pressure, may experience fatigue for a number of reasons. One reason is that high blood pressure can put extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. Additionally, certain medications used to treat high blood pressure can cause fatigue as a side effect. Finally, high blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease or sleep apnea, which can also cause fatigue.
Why people with low blood pressure may feel tired
It is possible for people with low blood pressure (hypotension) to experience fatigue. Low blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, certain medications, and underlying health conditions such as anemia or diabetes.
Low blood pressure can cause fatigue because it can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the body’s cells and tissues. When the body’s cells and tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, they may not function as well, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. Additionally, low blood pressure can cause dizziness and fainting, which can also contribute to feelings of fatigue.
Tired after these blood pressure medications?
Some common blood pressure medications that can cause fatigue as a side effect include:
Beta blockers
Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. This can help to lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and slowing the heart rate. Beta blockers that may cause fatigue as a side effect include propranolol, metoprolol, and atenolol.
ACE inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) work by blocking the production of a substance called angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to narrow. This helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. ACE inhibitors that may cause fatigue as a side effect include captopril, lisinopril, and enalapril.
ARBs
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) work by blocking the effects of angiotensin II on the blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. ARBs that may cause fatigue as a side effect include losartan, valsartan, and irbesartan.
What to do when you feel tired after your blood pressure medication?
Treatment for fatigue caused by hypertension (high blood pressure) may involve the following steps:
Addressing other underlying causes
If hypertension is causing fatigue, it is important to identify and address any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the high blood pressure. This may include conditions such as sleep apnea or kidney disease.
Making lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep may also help to reduce fatigue in people with hypertension.
What to do to address fatigue with hypotension?
To treat fatigue caused by hypotension (low blood pressure), the following steps may be helpful:
Identifying and addressing the cause
The first step in treating fatigue caused by hypotension is to identify and address the underlying cause. This may involve adjusting medications, treating underlying medical conditions, or making lifestyle changes.
Making lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes such as increasing fluid and salt intake, getting regular exercise, and avoiding standing up too quickly may help to improve symptoms of hypotension and reduce fatigue.
Taking medications
In some cases, medications such as midodrine may be prescribed to help raise blood pressure and improve symptoms of hypotension.
It is important to note that the specific treatment for fatigue caused by blood pressure issues will depend on the individual and the underlying cause of the blood pressure problem. It is always best to speak with a healthcare provider for personalized treatment recommendations.
Research
The Relationship Between Fatigue and Cardiac Functioning
Hard Work While Fatigued Affects Blood Pressure
Genetic contributions to self-reported tiredness – Nature
Conclusions
It is important to note that not everyone who takes these medications will experience fatigue as a side effect. If you are taking a blood pressure medication and are experiencing fatigue, it is important to talk to your doctor about it. S/he may be able to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication that is less likely to cause fatigue.
