Final answer:
The best treatment option for Barb, who has asthma in addition to hypertension and high cholesterol, would likely be a calcium channel blocker, as it effectively manages blood pressure without exacerbating asthma symptoms. Lifestyle changes are also crucial for long-term management.
Step-by-step explanation:
For Barb, who is asthmatic and also has hypertension and high cholesterol, careful consideration of her treatment options is necessary. While beta-blockers are one class of medication used to treat hypertension, they might not be the best choice for Barb because they can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Moreover, beta-blockers can lead to bradycardia and heart stoppage if overprescribed. ACE inhibitors, such as enalapril and lisinopril, would be a better option as they help lower blood pressure by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which can decrease vasoconstriction. Diuretics can also be effective in managing hypertension by helping the body rid itself of excess sodium and water. However, the best option for treating both hypertension and high cholesterol without negatively impacting Barb's asthma would likely be a calcium channel blocker. This type of medication reduces blood pressure by inhibiting calcium from entering cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, thus dilating the arteries and reducing the force of the heart's contractions.
Additionally, lifestyle changes are an important part of managing both hypertension and high cholesterol. These include adhering to a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco smoke. Sometimes, medications that lower blood triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol levels are also necessary to control atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries.