Diuretics
Make the kidneys remove more water and salt, reducing swelling and lowering blood pressure.
Why it gets prescribed
Commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, heart failure, swelling, and some kidney or liver conditions.
What to watch for
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium) and kidney function are checked periodically. Daily weight is a simple, useful measure in heart failure.
Stopping — read this before you stop anything
Do not stop, and do not increase it yourself when swelling worsens — both can harm. Report it for adjustment.
Tell the prescriber and the pharmacist
Mention anti-inflammatory painkillers, potassium supplements, or any diarrhoea or vomiting — dehydration plus a diuretic is a situation to take seriously.
Worth asking
- What time of day should I take it so it does not wake me
- Should I weigh daily, and what change should I report
- What do I do on a very hot day, or a day with diarrhoea