What common side effect do patients report when taking nitroglycerin?

When patients take nitroglycerin, a common side effect they often report is a pounding headache. This occurs due to the medication's mechanism of action, which involves the dilation of blood vessels. As blood vessels expand, there can be a sudden increase in blood flow and changes in pressure within the cranial cavity, leading to headaches. Additionally, nitroglycerin can cause a decrease in blood pressure, which may contribute to feeling lightheaded or dizzy.

Other options, while potentially experienced by patients receiving various forms of treatment, are not as directly associated with nitroglycerin as headaches. Dizziness might occur due to the drop in blood pressure and subsequent decrease in cerebral perfusion, but it is not as characteristic. Vomiting and muscle cramps are not commonly linked to nitroglycerin usage and are far less frequently reported as side effects. The pounding headache remains the most notable side effect associated with this medication.