Diueretic Question?
 

My pcp is suggesting I add a diueretic to my bp med if my blood pressure continues to be borderline high. I have to go back in sometime next week to have it re checked. It has been going up and down from 140s/low 80s to normal.

Are there any issues I should be aware associated with taking a diueretic and ms. I am concerned it may cause increased muscle spasms. I have been occasionally retaining fluid in my ankles/feet if I sit too long (at desk or traveling) so I believe that is the other reason she is suggesting it.

I did not think to ask her about muscle aches.

Barb, I would definately call your neuro to ask. These are good questions that need answers.

Have you tried to dilegently get up from your sitting and moving around to prevent the fluid buildup?

Good Luck. Let us know what the doc says!

kinds/classes of Diuretics
 

There are about 4 different kinds/classes of Diuretics.

I have found that I experience severe cramps when I take Thiazide and Thiazide-like Diuretics.(one)

I now take a Loop Diuretic(two) which solved my problem. One of my other Blood Pressure Meds causes me to retain Potassium and even though the Loop Diuretic may deplete some Potassium I maintain stable levels.

The other classes are (three) Potassium-sparing Diuretics and (four) Combination Diuretics.

Ask your Neuro which kind would be best for you then talk to your GP.

jackD.

Hi Bird, I mainly have this problem when flying or driving longer distances even though I do stop every 2 hours while driving and move around. I think since school has started I have noticed the problem more because I need to sit while teaching for the most part. At home I usually will keep my legs elevated when not on the computer or moving around.

Jack, I will call my neuro. I am not sure how helpful he will be, but it doesn't hurt to ask. The diueretic my gp was mentioning is one that is combined with benicar.

i don't know the answer to your Q barb.
however, my dr has me on a once a wk or so dose of lasix for edema in my feet/legs. my BP has been slightly high.

she's supplementing the lasix with a dose of potassium (K).
one thing you should be aware of when taking diuretics is that electrolytes in your blood and cells can become unbalanced.

and, electrolytes such as sodium (salt; NACL) and K can affect the heart and muscles.

different diuretics work in different ways in the body. it all is a bit complicated. but these are good Q's to ask your dr. especially if he wants you to take it daily.

and, BTW, i still con't to stay hydrated and drink 8-10 glasses of H2O/day.