Heart failure medicine: Diuretics

Diuretics (water pills) help your body get rid of extra fluid. Getting rid of extra water will reduce the swelling in your feet, ankles, legs and abdomen. Diuretics also remove extra fluid in your lungs. This makes breathing easier.

If you take a diuretic you may go the bathroom often and have a dry mouth. These are signs the diuretic is working and not a cause for concern. You should take the diuretic early in the morning so it works during the day. This reduces trips to the bathroom at night. If you take the diuretic two times a day, take the second dose no later than 4 or 5 p.m.

Side effects

When taking a diuretic, possible side effects include:

fluid loss (dehydration)
potassium loss
increased blood glucose

If you have fluid loss, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand. To help avoid this feeling, stand up slowly, avoid standing for long periods of time, avoid exercising in hot weather, and avoid or limit alcohol to one drink a day.

Be sure to wear sunscreen when you are outside on sunny days. Taking a diuretic may increase your sensitivity to sunlight.

If you have any of the problems listed below while taking a diuretic, tell your health care provider:

unusual tiredness or weakness
thirst or dry mouth
weak or irregular heartbeat
mood changes
muscle cramps or pain
nausea or vomiting
loss of appetite