By Angie Best-Boss, Contributing Writer
Diuretics are tablets designed to reduce fluid in people who suffer from fluid retention. Anorexics and bulimics abuse them in order to achieve temporary weight loss. Diuretic abuse, as well as causing dehydration, can lead to fluid retention and weight gain. In an attempt to adjust to the diuretic effects, the body will retain water. Abusing this type of medication can also lead to dizzy spells and fainting.
If you or a loved one has an Eating Disorder, please call Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center at 1-877-398-4141 any time to discuss treatment options.
Diuretics are commonly used to lower blood pressure. So, in a person with normal blood pressure, the diuretic effects can cause hypotension. Diuretics are not meant to be weight loss tools and can cause serious side effects including, but not limited to, increased uric acid levels and hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is perhaps the most serious side effect as it can cause headaches, dizziness, irregular heartbeats and muscle paralysis.
The adult body consists of 60-70% water. The human brain consists of approximately 85% water. Blood is approximately 90% water. Long-term diuretics can cause dehydration, which has serious side effects, including:
- Kidney Damage
- Cardiac Arrhythmias
- Heart Palpitations
- Salt Imbalance
- Electrolyte Imbalance
- Fluid Retention
- Potassium Deficiency
- Dizziness
- Dry Eyes
- Constipation
- Hypotension
- Death
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If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, please call Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center at 1-877-211-5188 anytime to discuss treatment options.
The Eating Disorder Support Group at SupportGroups.com is for individuals who want to connect during life's challenging times. Share experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
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The Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
