Water Pills Side Effects

Diuretics are drugs that stimulate the body to release urine in abnormally high amounts. Diuretics come in different types and although each one increases the urination rate, the approach that each type of diuretic adopts to elevate urine flow is different. Diuretics are prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure, bloating and weight loss. No medication is free from side effects and this also applies to water pills.

Frequent Urination
As aforementioned, whether you take natural diuretics or synthetically prepared ones, the most common side effect you are likely to experience is increased urination. Thus, frequent trips to the toilet to pee is often the result of taking water pills. Water pills for weight loss or high blood pressure prompts the kidneys to produce more urine. Along with urine, sodium is also excreted. In fact, these water pills are formulated to increase urinary rate. Frequent urination removes excess water from the blood, which in turn helps to bring down high blood pressure.

Increased Thirst
As the urine output increases dramatically due to diuretic drugs, the person is likely to experience unreasonable thirst. This happens because, water loss from increased urine flow is substantially high, which may lead to dehydration. Water pills may also lead to abnormal heart rate and fatigue.

Muscle Weakness
Unfortunately, water and sodium are not the only ones that are lost during urination. Along with sodium, potassium might also be drained from the body. Thus, when potassium levels deviate from normal range, the person may suffer from frequent episodes of muscle cramps. Potassium deficiency can also make the person tired easily. Persistent fatigue accompanied by muscle weakness and constipation is something associated with low potassium levels. Decreased appetite, nauseating feeling and muscle cramps are all pointing towards potassium deficiency. Including potassium supplements in the diet may help to alleviate low potassium symptoms.

Dizziness
Diuretic induced dizziness is a temporary medical problem and usually lasts for a few minutes. Dizziness, better known as lightheadedness is an unusual sensation in which the person feels as if the surrounding environment is revolving around him.

Skin Rash
Water pills causing skin rash is an indication of mild allergic reaction. Water pills side effects manifesting in the form of allergic reactions usually causes a localized rash. The affected area of the body may itch persistently or at intermediate periods.

Other Side Effects
There have been reports of unexplained weight loss, fever, cough, sore throat, bruising, vision becoming blurred, which may be accompanied by headache in patients put on diuretics. These side effects require immediate medical attention and so one must inform the doctor immediately.

Although water pills are available over the counter, to be on the safer side one must first consult a qualified doctor before using them. Taking the medication in the right dosage is crucial to keep the severity of its side effects in the tolerable range. So, taking diuretics as instructed by the doctor would serve the purpose of using these medications.