Diphenhydramine Should Not be Taken by People with High Blood Pressure

Diphenhydramine is an effective type of antihistamine used in the treatment of allergy symptoms. It normally takes effect after a few minutes making a first-choice medicine for most allergic folks. This drug works by blocking the effect of histamine at the cells' receptor sites. This process results to the increase of vascular smooth muscle contraction, thus reducing the redness, edema, and hyperthermia that happens during an allergic reaction. Moreover, by blocking the cell receptors for histamine, diphenhydramine decreases the sensitization and eventual reduction of itching associated with an allergic reaction. This makes this drug a popular choice for people dealing with allergic rhinitis, motion sickness, hives, and insect bites and stings.

Unfortunately, this drug should not be taken by people with high blood pressure. Diphenhydramine can excite the heart causing it to palpitate, thus increasing the normal pressure in the blood vessels. This condition can be potentially dangerous for those with existing high blood pressure. While increased blood pressure can be tolerated by normal, healthy people, a sudden surge of blood pressure can cause stroke and other damages to other vital organs of the body normally caused by high blood pressure symptoms. If you have high blood pressure, do not hesitate to tell your doctor about it to avoid complications.