💊 Medication #5: Sedative sleeping pills

Many seniors use sleep medications to rest better at night. But some sedative sleeping pills can cause morning grogginess, breathing changes, or increased fall risk. In certain people, poor nighttime breathing may add stress to the heart.

A safer sleep plan may include better sleep habits, reviewing caffeine use, adjusting bedtime routines, or using short-term treatment only when truly needed.

💊 Medication #4: Tricyclic antidepressants

Older antidepressants, sometimes prescribed for mood, nerve pain, or sleep, may affect heart rhythm in some seniors. They can also cause dizziness, dry mouth, confusion, or low blood pressure when standing.

If you feel lightheaded, notice a racing heartbeat, or feel unusually weak, ask your doctor whether your medication should be reviewed.

💊 Medication #3: Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine

Decongestants can help clear a stuffy nose, but they may also narrow blood vessels and raise blood pressure. Some people may feel a fast heartbeat, nervousness, or chest discomfort after using them.

Seniors with high blood pressure or heart conditions should be especially careful and ask a pharmacist or doctor before using these products.