K.N.O.W. Home Health - ANTIHYPERTENSIVE

ANTIHYPERTENSIVES:

High-Risk Concerns with Antihypertensive:

• High Risk: Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure), Increase Falls

General Guidance:

• Do not ignore any unusual symptoms.

• Mild symptoms should be reported to your home health agency.

• Severe symptoms require emergency medical attention.

Call Your Home Health Agency Immediately if You Experience:

· Mild dizziness or lightheadedness (especially when standing up)

· Fatigue or weakness that is persistent

· Swelling in the legs or ankles (which could indicate fluid retention)

· Persistent headache or mild confusion

· Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, or low urine output)

· Uncontrolled blood pressure despite taking medication.

· Mildly Slow heart rate (bradycardia) without other symptoms.

Go to the Emergency Room (or Call 911) If You Have:

· Severe dizziness or fainting (signs of dangerously low blood pressure)

· Severe chest pain or pressure (possible heart attack)

· Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

· Confusion, difficulty speaking, or weakness on one side (possible stroke)

· Very slow or very fast heart rate that causes distress

· Extremely high blood pressure (systolic over 180 mmHg or diastolic over 120 mmHg) with symptoms like severe headache, vision changes, or nausea

· Slow heart rate (bradycardia) or irregular heartbeat