Diuretics what are they?
According to Dr. Shailesh Kakde (India), a nephrologist, diuretics are types of medication created to remove excess fluid from the body by increasing urine production. It helps the kidneys release more sodium into the urine, reducing the amount of blood flowing through the veins and arteries, thereby lowering blood pressure.
Types of diuretics
- Thiazide diuretics are the most commonly used diuretics to increase the release of salt in the urine. They help reduce fluid levels and dilate blood vessels.
- Quinidine diuretics are used to treat heart failure, kidney disease, or liver cirrhosis and high blood pressure. They cause the kidneys to excrete more fluid, leading to increased urine production.
- Potassium-sparing diuretics are diuretics that can help the kidneys remove salt and water from the body. They are often used in combination with other diuretics to prevent hypokalemia (low potassium levels).
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are medications used to inhibit the activity of carbonic anhydrase enzyme. This enzyme is involved in various bodily processes, and inhibiting it can have effects such as reducing eye pressure or increasing urine production.
- Osmotic diuretics are medications that help remove excess water from the body without disrupting electrolyte balance. They are primarily used in emergency situations, such as reducing intracranial pressure or treating acute kidney injury.
How do diuretics help treat high blood pressure?
Diuretics reduce the amount of fluid accumulated in blood vessels and help lower blood pressure. They are often prescribed to control hypertension.
According to the Hypertension Journal, prescription diuretics can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of severe health problems. Since high sodium levels in the blood are the primary cause of hypertension, diuretics support the removal of sodium and are beneficial in treating high blood pressure.
Side effects of diuretics
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Thirst
- Hyperglycemia
- Muscle cramps
- Increased cholesterol
- Skin rash
- Gout
- Diarrhea
Prescription diuretics can help treat severe conditions, such as heart failure and high blood pressure. However, if any side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.
