A cardiologist warns: these 5 medications increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in older people

Cause fluid retention
Affect kidney function
Interfere with certain blood-pressure medicines

Older adults who use NSAIDs frequently should discuss the safest dose and duration with their healthcare professional.

2. Some Decongestants

Cold and allergy medications sometimes contain stimulants designed to shrink swollen blood vessels inside the nose.

 

Common examples include products containing:

Pseudoephedrine
Phenylephrine

Because these medicines constrict blood vessels, they may temporarily raise blood pressure and heart rate.

This may be more important for people with:

Uncontrolled hypertension
Coronary artery disease
Previous stroke
Certain heart rhythm disorders

A person