Side Effects Of Calcium Channel Blockers

Headaches

A patient being treated with calcium channel blockers may experience frequent headaches. Calcium channel blockers induce changes in an affected individual's blood vessels to produce their blood pressure lowering effects. The blood vessels in the body of a patient taking calcium channel blockers become dilated or expand in diameter, including those that supply the meninges. The meninges are a set of membranes that surround and protect the brain tissues. When the blood vessels in an individual's meninges become dilated, the nerves around them get stretched out. The stretched nerves relay signals to the individual's trigeminal system, the region of the brain that transmits signals of pain in the face and head. The trigeminal system also transmits impulses to the individual's hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that regulates hunger, body temperature, and the release of certain hormones. The effects vasodilation has on different parts of the brain is what can cause a patient to experience headaches when taking calcium channel blockers.

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Constipation

Constipation is a relatively common side effect for patients who take calcium channel blockers. Doctors define constipation as having fewer than three stools per week, and patients with this symptom may notice their stools are hard and lumpy. It might feel as though there is a blockage in the rectum or like the stool cannot be completely emptied from the rectum. Patients might strain during bowel movements. To alleviate constipation, it can help to add high-fiber foods to the diet such as legumes, cereals, oatmeal, and fruits. Gentle physical activity, including walking and swimming, could help ease symptoms. If necessary, patients may wish to try a stool softener or a fiber supplement, and a doctor's appointment should be made if the patient has not had a bowel movement for more than three or four days.

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