15 Unexpected Twists Your Body Takes With Diuretics

4. Increased Thirst

Some patients who take diuretics may notice increased thirst. This symptom typically develops as a result of the increased fluid loss these medications produce. Increased thirst could be a sign the patient is dehydrated and has lost too much fluid, so individuals who notice this symptom should always seek medical advice. Patients who take diuretics to treat kidney or heart conditions often need to restrict fluids, and they need to ask their physician about how much daily fluid intake they should have. Individuals with severe kidney or heart conditions might be asked to measure all liquids and record these amounts. While the increased thirst triggered by diuretics may cause an urge to drink more fluids, doing so could upset the fluid balance in a patient's body, which may lead to problems with electrolytes. Reducing salt in the diet may help reduce thirst, and patients might want to try sucking on frozen fruit or ice chips to satisfy their thirst without increasing their liquid intake. Chewing on hard candy, mints, or gum keeps the mouth moist and can reduce the desire for fluids too.