What Are Beta Blockers?
Your provider said the words "beta blockers" or you read them on a list of prescriptions. Maybe you're wondering what they are, what they do and what you need to know about them. If so, this blog post will answer all of those questions.
Beta Blockers Explained
Beta blockers are medicine ordered by your heart care or primary care provider. Beta blockers slow down your heart. They also relax your blood vessels. You might be asking, "Why are they called beta blockers?" and "What do they block?"
The answer to those questions is that they block stress hormones. The main one is adrenaline.
What Do Beta Blockers Treat?
Here are the health conditions beta blockers might treat:
- Irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain
- Heart failure
- Anxiety
- Migraine
- Tremor
Most of the time, beta blockers treat heart problems. But they can also help with non-heart conditions, too. Your provider will decide if they are right for you.
Beta Blocker Side Effects
As with any medication, beta blockers come with side effects. The side effects are generally mild for most people.
The following is a list of common side effects:
- Feeling dizzy
- Being tired
- Cold hands
- Cold feet
While these tend to be mild effects, please inform your provider of any new symptoms. If you have asthma, diabetes or a slow heart rate, it is even more important to let your cardiologist know.
Don't Stop on Your Own
If you take beta blockers, stopping suddenly can lead to chest pain. It can also result in a spike in your high blood pressure. Both can be uncomfortable. And they might trigger other symptoms or even a need to see a provider right away.
Therefore, for safety, always talk to your provider before you stop taking any medication.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
If your Baptist Health provider prescribes beta blockers, ask questions to better understand the treatment.
Questions to ask:
- Why are you ordering this medication for me?
- What are possible side effects?
- What are other options?
- What do I do if I accidentally miss a dose?
Get Help from Baptist Health
To learn more about heart care, reach out to your Baptist Health cardiologist. If you do not have a cardiologist, you can find one by visiting our provider directory.
