Choosing a pain reliever with high blood pressure

Anti-inflammatory pain relievers can cause fluid retention, affect kidney blood flow and reduce the effect of some blood-pressure medicines. The concern is greater with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, dehydration or several interacting medicines. Products for colds may contain decongestants that increase blood pressure. High blood pressure itself may have no symptoms, so pain relief should not replace regular pressure checks or prescribed treatment.

Tell the pharmacist your blood-pressure readings, prescribed medicines and any kidney, heart or stomach conditions. Ask whether a non-anti-inflammatory option, topical treatment or non-drug measure is suitable for the pain site. Use the smallest amount for the shortest reasonable period, follow the label and avoid taking two products with the same ingredient. Continue prescribed blood-pressure treatment unless your clinician tells you otherwise. Keep a record of readings if a new medicine is started.

Call emergency services for chest pressure, severe breathlessness, sudden weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting or a sudden severe headache. Arrange prompt review for swelling, much less urine, repeated high readings, or pain that needs daily medicine. A clinician may need to review the cause of pain as well as its treatment.

Could this medicine affect my blood pressure, kidneys or heart? Is a topical or non-anti-inflammatory option appropriate? How should I monitor readings, and which symptoms require emergency help?