Millions of older adults take medications every day, convinced they are protecting their health. However, some of the most common drugs may be having the opposite effect on the body, especially the heart.

The problem is that the damage doesn’t always appear as chest pain or obvious heart attacks. Often, it manifests as fatigue, dizziness, swelling, palpitations, or shortness of breath—symptoms that are often attributed to aging when they may actually be related to medications.

Below, we review five types of pills that deserve special attention regarding the heart health of older adults.

5. Commonly Used Anti-Inflammatory Pain Reliever

These are widely used to relieve discomfort in the knees, back, hips, and joints. Many older adults take them almost daily without knowing that they can raise blood pressure and promote fluid retention.

When the body retains fluids, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, leading to progressive wear and tear. Over time, swelling may appear in the legs, along with shortness of breath when lying down and fatigue when walking.

Natural alternative: Turmeric, combined with a small amount of black pepper, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain gradually without straining the cardiovascular system. It should be used judiciously, and you should always consult your doctor if you are taking blood thinners or have upcoming surgery.

4. Decongestants and flu pills:

Many cold medications contain substances that constrict blood vessels and stimulate the nervous system. This can cause palpitations, increased blood pressure, and arrhythmias in older adults.

The danger lies in the fact that they are often purchased without a prescription and taken under the mistaken belief that they are harmless.

Natural alternative: Inhaling warm steam with eucalyptus or mint can relieve congestion without altering the heart rate. In addition, good hydration helps to thin secretions and improves breathing.