Next to medical frontliners and senior citizens, persons with comorbidities are also on the priority list for the COVID-19 vaccine. While jabs are backed by clinical trials for safety and efficacy, those with health concerns—such as hypertension—may respond differently.
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Ideally, blood pressure should be stable when receiving the vaccine. If not, hypertensive patients may be asked to wait until blood pressure lowers, or return to the inoculation site once it stabilizes.
Got high blood pressure? Here's what you need to know about getting the vaccine if you've got hypertension, according to the Department of Health.
People with hypertension can get the COVID-19 vaccine.
It's safe for individuals with high blood pressures to get the jab, said Dr. Debbie Ona from the Philippine Society of Hypertension. A patient must have a stable blood pressure during the day of vaccination.
"Bago magpa-bakuna ang isang pasyenteng may high blood, dapat ang kanyang blood pressure ay kontrolado bago pumunta sa vaccination center," she said.
What should you do on your day of vaccination?
Drink your maintenance medicines on the day of your schedule and bring some just in case.
"Mag-relax habang nasa pila at dapat nakabihis ng komportable," Ona said.
There are some things you should skip on.
Avoid drinking coffee or other caffeinated drinks, smoking, or ingesting medicines that can temporarily increase blood pressure such as pain relievers and cold or cough treatments.
Eating in line is discouraged as this could also temporarily spike blood pressure.
Monitor your blood pressure post-jab.
All individuals are required to undergo monitoring for at least 30 minutes after getting their dose. If your blood pressure rises in the period, you can do breathing exercises to lower it.
Inhale for four counts, hold for two counts, and exhale for four counts. This can be done for three to five minutes. If you don't feel any pain or discomfort, you should be able to go.
If you observe high blood pressure at home hours later, consult your doctor.
