$Unique_ID{BRK01631}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases}
$Title{What Are the Reasons for Taking a "Water Pill"?}
$Subject{diuretics blood pressure}
$Volume{N}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Are the Reasons for Taking a "Water Pill"?


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QUESTION:  I have been taking this medicine for years but never understood
why.  Could you tell me the reasons for taking a "water pill".  Many of my
friends also take them, and we would all be happy to know why.

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ANSWER:  Water pills are "diuretics", medications that make the body urinate
more and lose excess water.  It is odd that, in our language, vitamin pills
give us vitamins, but water pills make us lose water.  Diuretics also rid the
body of excess salt.
     Diuretics are widely used to treat high blood pressure, which is so
common in this country.  They are also used for people with heart failure
since they reduce the amount of fluid the heart has to pump.  Milder diuretics
are often used by women who suffer premenstrual bloating.
     There are three basic kinds of diuretics--thiazides, loop diuretics, and
potassium-sparing diuretics.  Each work slightly differently, but they all
cause the kidneys to work faster and put out more, but less concentrated,
urine.  People on diuretics usually notice they urinate more, but the urine is
paler than normal.
     Diuretics have risks and benefits.  Thiazides can cause dizziness and
weakness and can dangerously reduce the body's levels of potassium and other
minerals.  Loop diuretics are very potent and must be used cautiously since
they can cause dehydration, low blood pressure, and reduced potassium levels.
Potassium-sparing diuretics don't reduce potassium levels severely, but they
can cause impotence, and menstrual disturbances.
     Because of the risk of potassium depletion (which can cause heartbeat
irregularities), doctors often advise people who take diuretics to eat
bananas, tomatoes, or other foods high in potassium.  Some people must also
take prescription potassium supplements.
     What ever the reason or diagnosis, if you are taking a "water pill", you
should understand the purpose of the medication, and not depart from the
schedule you have been given.  As you can see, despite their wide use,
diuretics are potent medicines and should be used as prescribed.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
