Diuretics:
One Kind of Hypertension Medication
(Page 3)
How do diuretics fit into my hypertension treatment?
Although diuretics are an important part of your treatment, they do not take the place of healthy eating, regular physical activity, and stress management. If you are prescribed a diuretic by your doctor or other health care professional, it’s important for you to take it as directed. Don’t stop taking your medication without consulting with your doctor or other health care professional first. If you are experiencing side effects, your doctor may be able to change your medication or the dosage to prevent these side effects. It’s likely that you may need to take the medication for the rest of your life, so work with your doctor to ensure that you are taking the right medicine and dose for you.
What do I need to know about my diuretic?
Take the time to ask your doctor or other health care professional about your medication:
- Why am I taking this medication?
- How often and how long should I take it?
- Are there any special instructions for taking this particular medication?
- Should I only take it at mealtime?
- Are there activities that I should avoid while taking this medication?
- What kind of side effects could I have and what symptoms should I look for?
- Is there a way to avoid any side effects?
How can I remember to take my medications?
Everyone has struggled with remembering to do things that they don’t regularly do. There are a number of things that can help you remember.
- Make a simple chart and post it in an obvious place where you will see it every day, like on the mirror in the bathroom.
- Set an alarm clock or watch as a reminder.
- Establish a daily routine for taking your medications, such as at bedtime, mealtime, or before a daily TV show, such as the evening news.
- Use a pillbox with seven sections, representing the days of the week.
- Record taking your medications on a wallet card or calendar.
- Can you think of others?