Taking a diuretic for high blood pressure is just one of many methods for treating this condition. In fact, this is usually combined with other types of high blood pressure medications since diuretics can sometimes increase the effectiveness of other drugs. A diuretic works by making the kidneys remove both water and sodium from the body, which typically results in more relaxed blood vessels. Once the blood vessels are no longer constricted, the blood can flow more easily. Additionally, using a diuretic for high blood pressure can also reduce the risk of stroke, heart attacks, and heart disease.
The use of a diuretic for high blood pressure often works because this drug encourages the kidneys to get rid of some of the salt and water in the blood, which results in reducing the blood volume. With less blood, the blood vessels are under less pressure, and they tend to widen and relax. The fact that blood can flow better after this procedure is completed means that the heart does not have work as hard, thereby reducing the risk of certain heart conditions, such as cardiac arrest and heart disease. This drug is usually particularly effective in those who are overweight, elderly, or of African descent.
In most cases, this type of hypertension treatment is combined with other high blood pressure medications, as diuretics tend to improve their effects. An additional benefit of combining the two treatments is that diuretics often reduce the bloating that frequently comes with most blood pressure medications, as they encourage the body to get rid of excess water. Unfortunately, those taking a diuretic for high blood pressure may need to also take potassium supplements since this medication can lower the amount of this nutrient in the body. Diuretics can also cause increased cholesterol or gout, and can worsen cases of diabetes and heart disease in some cases, which is why a doctor needs to closely monitor patients using this drug.
Like any medication, there are some side effects that may come with the use of a diuretic for high blood pressure. Due to the fact that this drug helps rid the body of excess water, side effects like increased thirst, excessive urination, dry mouth, and dehydration are to be expected in many patients. The good news is that these symptoms should go away once the body gets used to this drug. Impotence, feelings of weakness, and tooth decay may also result, and should be mentioned to a doctor as soon as possible.
