Diuretics/Edema (kinda long)

For the past year I've had severe swelling (edema) in my left ankle. I was given several options and chose a "water" pill. I dont take it ever day but when I'm up 5-6 lbs I take the pill for a couple of days then I'm good for several weeks. Then repeat the cycle again.

Also for the past year I've been having dizzy/faint feeling episodes. Mostly in the morning and/or when I exercise. So I would quit exercising. It doesnt happen every day, just occasionally but I wouldnt exercise for a couple of months at a time because I was afraid I would get that "feeling".

Anyway, it has been about a month since I took a water pill. I starting exercising about 3 weeks ago. So far no problem and I have felt better than I have ever felt. I have tried some new things (zumba and boxing) and find that I'm loving them. I'm also walking 4-5 miles 3-4 nights per week.

I'm excited because I'm seeing some change in my body that I love! My big ole belly is getting smaller and my super loose jiggly thighs are toning up. Yea!!

However, Thursday I was up 6 lbs and my left foot/toes were swollen beyond belief so I took a water pill. Was down about 3 lbs Friday morning so I took another one Friday afternoon and was down nearly another 3 lbs Saturday morning. Saturday morning I nearly passed out from dizziness. Not once but 3 times!!

This is when I had the "lightbulb moment". It has to be the water pill. I'm either dehydrated (even thought I take in more than 64 oz of fluid) or I'm losing too many nutrients from the pill. I dont know what it is but I'm going to see my PCP Monday and discuss the alternatives again. I dont like this feeling at all and I know I'm using it as an excuse to sabotage my exercise. I did walk 3 miles last night (was a little dizzy towards the end) instead of my 4-5. However, I am determined to keep moving!!

Does anyone else have issues with edema? I do watch my sodium intake and try to drink lots of fluids but it doesnt seem to help. Im a little frustrated but am determined to push forward!!

Thanks for any input!!

Debby

Have your doc check your blood pressure, lying, sitting and standing. Also have him check your electrolytes, especially  your potassium. The dizziness COULD be from orthostatic hypotension due to volume loss, (from the diuretics), or an imbalance in your electrolytes, because you do lose them with a non potassium sparing diuretic. This could account for the edema also.  Hopes this helps.

The only time I really have edema is when I go on vacation I blow up like a pufferfish.  Anyway I'm guessing the water pill is to strong so you may need a lower dosage.

Ms  Shell

Hi Debby,

It sounds like your bp is too low to me!  When your weight gains that much overnight..it is total fluid.  I too have issues with fluid and I take 1/2 pill everyday.  I used to take 1 pill for my bp.  My bp is totally fine since surgery but I need it for my edema only now.  I can totally tell when I don't take it and I don't like feeling "puffy".    I take HCTZ.  what are you taking?  I think you need to see your PCP for sure.  But I also think you would be better off taking a lower dose on a regular daily basis rather than a bigger dose every once in a while.  Let us know what your doc says. 

Patty

Hi Patty, I am also taking HCTZ (25 mg). I've never taken it for BP issues only for the edema. My BP has been steady at about 110/70 since surgery and was considered borderline high right before but was never put on meds for it. I will check with my PCP because these issues I'm having only seem to start after taking the HCTZ. I was dizzy this morning so I check the BP and it was 108/67. Also checked my blood sugars and they are at 85. So both are within normal range for me. Frustrating to say the least!!

Thanks for your input on this and I will let you know if/when I find out something!!

Debby