Calcium channel blockers work especially well in Black people and older adults. People usually tolerate them without issue. But, in rare cases, they can cause swelling of the feet and lower legs. If this happens, be sure to touch base with your healthcare team.
Beta blockers
Beta blockers — like metoprolol and carvedilol — are medications that block the hormone epinephrine (adrenaline). They can treat high blood pressure as well as coronary artery disease and heart failure.
Beta blockers can also block symptoms of low blood sugar (like a fast heartbeat). So, if you have diabetes and take a beta blocker, make sure to regularly check your blood sugar levels.
Diuretics
Diuretics — or “water pills” — are medications that lower blood pressure by helping the body get rid of excess fluid. In short, they make the kidneys work harder so that you pee more.
Beyond lowering blood pressure, diuretics can also help people who have heart failure or edema (swelling).
What else can I do about diabetes and high blood pressure?
Aside from making healthy lifestyle changes and taking high blood pressure medications (if needed), there are other healthy habits you can take up:
Keep your blood glucose levels in range. You can do this with a diabetes-friendly diet and medications (if your primary care provider recommends them). Controlling your blood sugar levels can also help with your high blood pressure and overall health.
Monitor your blood pressure. Get a home blood pressure monitor to keep tabs on your blood pressure. Your readings show how different situations affect your blood pressure. And this can help you and your care team know how well your treatment plan is working.
Ask your healthcare provider about aspirin. Some people with high blood pressure should take aspirin to prevent heart disease and stroke. But this isn’t true for everyone with high blood pressure and diabetes. Your primary care provider can help you make that decision based on your risks and other health conditions.
Visit your primary care provider regularly. They can help you stay on top of your high blood pressure, diabetes, and other risk factors like high cholesterol.
The bottom line
Diabetes and high blood pressure are closely related, and they often act together to cause other health complications. Without treatment, both conditions can cause damage to the heart, blood vessels, and vital organs.
Lifestyle changes — like losing weight, staying active, and cutting back on smoking — are the first treatments for both diabetes and high blood pressure. Many people with diabetes also need medications to lower blood pressure.
If you have diabetes and high blood pressure, keep in close contact with your healthcare team. The better you manage both of these conditions, the lower your risk will be for heart disease and stroke.
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