A weekly column looking at common treatments
Conventional drugs: Beta Blockers for heart trouble/hypertension
What are they? Beta blockers interrupt the transmission of stimuli through receptors in the body called beta receptors. Common beta blockers include Atenolol, Metoprolol and Sotalol.
What's it good for? Treating angina, hypertension and irregular heart rhythms. After a heart attack they reduce the likelihood of developing an abnormal rhythm and limit further damage to the heart muscle. Other uses include improving the heart function in cases of heart muscle disorders (cardiomyopathies), to prevent migraine headaches, and to control anxiety symptoms and an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). As an eye drop, they are used for people with glaucoma, as they lower fluid pressure inside the eye.
How does it work? Beta blockers occupy the beta receptors in various parts of the body and neutralise the action of noradrenaline - the hormone that produces the "fight or flight" response. It slows the heart rate and reduces the force of the heart beat. This reduces the heart's workload, helping to prevent angina, abnormal heart rhythms, and dilation of the blood vessels. It also reduces fluid production in the eyes and lowers blood pressure inside the eye when given in eye drop form.
Any contraindications? As beta blockers can constrict the airways, they should be prescribed with caution for asthma, bronchitis and respiratory disease sufferers. Beta blockers reduce blood flow to the limbs and are often unsuitable for those with poor circulation. Those suffering from heart failure may not tolerate beta blockers as they can reduce the force of the heart beat. Beta blockers shouldn't be discontinued abruptly, withdrawal should be gradual and under supervision.
Possible side-effects? Diabetes sufferers on beta blockers may notice suppression of signs for low blood sugar levels. Beta blockers can reduce the capacity for strenuous exercise. Cold hands and feet are common, and temporary impotence may occur. They may interact with medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, calcium channel blockers, decongestants, anti-diabetic drugs and anti-arrhythmic drugs.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative remedy: Ginger, for circulation problems and to help prevent travel sickness
What is it? Ginger root in fresh, dried, crystalised or tincture form is used as a herbal remedy.
What is it good for? Ginger stimulates the peripheral circulation and is useful for bad circulation, chilblains and cramps. It promotes gastric secretions and is valuable for indigestion, flatulence, colic and travel sickness. As a gargle, it may be effective in the relief of sore throats and is used externally for muscle sprains and fibrositis or as a compress for back pain.
How does it work? Ginger contains volatile oils which have a strong stimulant action on digestion and circulation.
Are their any contraindications? It should not be taken in medicinal dosage during pregnancy. Those with hypertension should consult a medical herbalist before using ginger as a herbal remedy.
Any side-effects? Large doses can irritate the stomach and cause nausea.
Sylvia Thompson
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