by Lauren Beyenhof

Created on: June 04, 2009

Cardiovascular disease is anything that affects the heart and the blood vessels responsible for the make-up of the heart's muscle. There are several symptoms that may indicate heart disease. A doctor must rely on a series of diagnostic tests along with patient interviews to correctly identify the type and severity of disease. Once the disease has been determined treatment can begin. There are a number of different prescriptions that can be used to treat cardiovascular disease. Of course no treatment is without its side effects.

-Most Common Medications and their Side Effects-

Accupril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure. It works by preventing angiotensin (found in the blood) from converting into a different form that would cause water and salt retention in the body. It can also be used to treat congestive heart failure. Common side effects include dizziness and headache.

Altace is often used in combination with other high blood pressure medications. Like Accupril it is an ACE inhibitor. People who show signs of congestive heart failure may be prescribed Accupril as a way to prevent their condition from getting worse. People with congestive heart failure who are taking Altace should be aware that low blood pressure may be a side effect of this medication.

Bumex works in the body by combating water retention as caused by congestive heart failure. A very powerful drug, it should be used carefully and monitored frequently to be sure that it isn't causing an unsafe drop in the amount of necessary minerals in the body. The most common side effects include dizziness, headache, low blood pressure, muscle cramps and nausea.

Capoten is an ACE inhibitor that not only treats high blood pressure and congestive heart failure, but also Raynaud's phenomenon and rheumatoid arthritis. Capoten helps keep the blood pressure at a safer range, though the benefit may not be noticed immediately. Itching, loss of taste and a rash are the minor side effects that can occur when taking Capoten. Capoten is a medication that should not be used during pregnancy.

Coreg works by increasing the heart's output while controlling blood pressure. The most common side effect is light-headedness or dizziness upon standing. Additionally, abdominal pain, fainting, fever, headache, hyperglycemia, sore throat, swelling weight gain and changes in vision have been reported by people who have taken Coreg.

Diamox helps control water retention associated with congestive heart failure.

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