A few smart swaps to help keep your blood pressure in check.
Feel a headache coming on? Stuffy nose? Heartburn? Your first thought may be to reach for an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine. But if you have high blood pressure (BP), those remedies could spike your blood pressure. Certain lifestyle factors can raise your BP too.
Here are a few risky BP boosters to look out for and alternatives to try. Plus, learn how your Aetna Medicare Advantage plan provides coverage to help you stay heart healthy.
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, may cause your body to hold onto water. This means your heart must work harder to pump. The drugs can also stop your blood vessels from working properly. When the vessels are narrow, blood can’t flow as easily. Both issues can boost your blood pressure.*
Alternative: The next time you talk to your doctor, ask them about other options for managing your headaches, muscle soreness and pain.
Nasal decongestants and other cold and flu medicines have NSAIDs in them to ease aches and pains. They also often contain high sodium ingredients, which can raise blood pressure.*
Alternative: For cold and flu symptoms, use a saline spray to loosen mucus and soothe stuffiness. The steam from hot tea and warm showers can also give you some relief.
Call our 24/7 Nurse Line* at
1-855-493-7019 (TTY: 711) to speak with a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.
*While only your doctor can diagnose, prescribe or give medical advice, the 24-Hour Nurse Line can provide information on a variety of health topics.
Some herbal and weight loss supplements can contain caffeine or other ingredients that can raise blood pressure to dangerous levels.*
Alternative: If you have high blood pressure, talk to your primary care provider (PCP) for a plan to lose weight or address the health issues you may use supplements for.
It’s important to be careful with alcohol and caffeine. They can raise blood pressure. So can not getting enough sleep.
Alternative: Adopt healthy habits that help control blood pressure. Drink decaffeinated tea or coffee. (Check for possible caffeine, even if the label says “decaf.”) Choose foods that are high in fiber and low in sodium, like whole grains and leafy greens. And get regular exercise and at least seven hours of sleep every night.
Ask a nurse 24/7
Sometimes you need a quick answer to a health question. With the 24-Hour Nurse Line,* you can speak to a registered nurse about a variety of health topics, whenever you need to. And you can call as many times as you need, at no added cost to you.
Call day or night for help with:
- Deciding whether to visit a doctor or urgent care center
- Understanding your symptoms
- Managing chronic conditions
- Learning about treatment options and medical procedures
Call 1-855-493-7019 (TTY: 711) anytime.
*While only your doctor can diagnose, prescribe or give medical advice, the 24-Hour Nurse Line can provide information on a variety of health topics.
Monitoring your blood pressure can be tricky. Fortunately, you don't have to do it alone. Your Aetna Medicare Advantage plan includes a 20 percent savings on CVS Health® brand health and wellness products. This includes an at-home blood pressure monitor.
Log in to your secure member website. Look for “Wellness Discounts for You” under “Wellness and Discounts.” There, you can read how to use your online promo code or print your in-store coupon to activate savings.
*FOR BLOOD PRESSURE: National Library of Medicine. A Literature Review Assessing Whether the Use of Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Increases the Risk of Cardiovascular Events. September 15, 2025. Accessed April 10, 2026.
*FOR COLD AND FLU: American Heart Association. Managing High Blood Pressure Medications. August 14, 2025. Accessed April 10, 2026.
*FOR SUPPLEMENTS: Cleveland Clinic. Have High Blood Pressure? Steer Clear of These Vitamins and Supplements. February 13, 2026. Accessed April 10, 2026.
*If you’re a Florida plan member, you can reach your care team at 1-844-498-1860 (TTY: 711), 7 days a week, 8 AM to 11 PM ET.
See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. Aetna is part of the CVS Health® family of companies. The discount does not apply to items you buy with your Aetna Medicare over-the-counter (OTC) benefit amount (allowance). Vendors offer Value-Added Items and Services (VAIS) at a discount that are not part of your plan’s benefits. You will pay the full cost of discounted services not covered under your plan.
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