Overview
Diuretics cause your kidneys to remove sodium and water. They also relax the blood vessel walls. These things can help lower your blood pressure, which reduces your risk of a heart attack and stroke. Lowering your blood pressure also reduces your risk of kidney disease.
Diuretics are also used to treat conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, and liver disease. They can help relieve symptoms caused by fluid buildup, such as swelling.
Examples
Here are some examples of diuretics.
- bumetanide
- chlorthalidone
- furosemide
- hydrochlorothiazide
- metolazone
Possible side effects
There are some common side effects. They include:
- Low levels of potassium.
- Feeling dizzy.
- A rash.
- Urinating a lot.
You may have other side effects. Check the information that comes with your medicine.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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