A diuretic can be defined as any drug that increases the amount of urination. Drugs in this class act in different ways, but they all have the same result- forced urination.
Diuretics may be prescribed to treat any number of conditions, such as edema (swelling), heart failure, liver disease and kidney disease. Lasix (furosemide), Aldactone (spironolactone) and Hydrochlorothiazide are all types of diuretics that may be described. Diuretics may also be prescribed to help control blood pressure. Caffeine is another type of diuretic.
How do diuretics affect incontinence? It’s simple- diuretics force your kidneys to produce more urine, and this increased urine production may lead to new incontinence or worsening of incontinence symptoms, especially in older people.
If you are taking a diuretic and find that you are experiencing incontinence, talk to your doctor. Your physician may be able to prescribe a diuretic that is less likely to cause incontinence. You should not quit taking your diuretic, as this may make the problem you were taking the diuretic for worse; instead, make an appointment with your doctor. Avoiding caffeine may also help you control your symptoms of incontinence.
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Tags: diuretics, incontinence symptoms, Types of Incontinence
