When you have high blood pressure, whether it's controlled or NOT, you need to be aware of potential complications when you get a passing cold, or have to deal with an unrelated chronic health problem. For instance, if you come down with the flu, you may also have a fever. If it is higher than 101, your blood pressure may spike a bit. This is because the fever narrows the blood vessels and speeds up your heart rate, which increases blood pressure. Dehydration from fever or infection can also raise your blood pressure. However, significant dehydration can drop your blood pressure.Staying well hydrated during periods of illness is extremely important. Nausea and vomiting are also symptoms of many viruses. If you're on oral high blood pressure medication, it may be difficult to keep it down with frequent vomiting. Ask your doctor for suggestions, because it is dangerous to go off your meds without medical supervision. Bronchitis and pneumonia cause inflammation of the airways and lungs, constrict blood vessels, and may make the heart work harder to meet the body's oxygen demands. That can also boost blood pressure. You should ask your doctor if you need to adjust your blood pressure medications while you are ill. It's also possible that your blood pressure goes up because of the medications you use to TREAT your cold or flu. If you have high blood pressure you will need to AVOID all decongestants in over-the-counter and prescription medications. Luckily there are decongestant-free cold and flu medications that are safe for people with high blood pressure. Nasal congestion can be relieved with a simple saline nasal spray, or set up a cool-mist vaporizer to moisten the air and ease congestion. A quick gargle with salt water can soothe a sore, scratchy throat. A simple pain reliever like aspirin or acetaminophen can ease flu-related aches and pains. Another potential problem? Medications used to treat chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, depression, arthritis, and insomnia, can have adverse interactions with blood pressure medication. In these cases, you'll have to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. If you do have high blood pressure, be sure to check with your doctor before picking up any medications to treat a passing infection or a chronic condition. For more information on how to keep your blood pressure in check, look into other videos in this series.