Fluid retention......

[Fismith69]

Just a quick question re fluid retention, Im newly diagnosed with HF and on Furosemide, I feel like my fluids building up slightly over the last few days? Any suggestions? Many thanks 😊

[stevejb1810]

It’s possible that your body is getting used to the meds you are now taking and ‘adjusting’. However if you are in any doubt or concerned, try 111 first and see what they say. If you fell ok now but are still worried tomorrow, get to see your GP

[P0rtnahapp1e]

I am on Furosemide and found that my fluid retention varied from day to day so although I was on 80 mg a day the consultant told me to take another 40 mg at my own discretion. As this drug lowers my (already low) blood pressure I obviously wouldn’t have done this without prior consultation.

[Fismith69]

Thanks guys! I have an appointment at the Drs today, with the nurse for bloods so I’m going to have a word 👍🏼

[Ashleigh_BHF]

Hi Fismith69

Just to add in addition to the great information from P0rtnahapp1e and stevejb1810 , are you on a fluid restriction and are you weighing yourself daily? Your team may advise you on a fluid restriction and ask you to weigh yourself first thing in the morning, which is particularly important during periods when you feel like fluid is building up as they can track how quickly your fluid is building up from your daily weights. Depending on your HF, ask your GP if you can be referred to a HF nurse who will be able to guide you in the early days of getting to know your condition.

Good to hear you're going to your Doctor, let us know how you get on.

Best of luck!

Ashleigh

[Fismith69]

Weighing myself every day and on 1.5 litres fluid restriction. It wasn’t my usual Dr who I saw today, she checked everything over and she said I’m fine, but I just feel bloated. I don’t think she wanted to advise me until I’ve seen the Cardiologist on the 25th April. 🙁

[dickielex]

Fluid retention shows up best through regular weight checks as people have suggested. My own weight gain over the last few weeks was dramatic although I am careful about my diet and did not have tell-tale swollen ankles. The cardiac nurse prescribed an increased does of Furosemide and BINGO I have shed about 5 pounds in a week. I spend too much time dashing to the loo but it's a small price to pay. If the diuretic dose is increased it's wise to have regular blood tests as kidneys can suffer through taking them. There is another diuretic called (I think )Spironolactone which might be something to talk to the doctor about. Fluid retention is an inevitable result of HF I am afraid but it's treatable as you know.

[Fismith69 in reply to dickielex]

Thanks! I’m at the Drs on Tuesday again for my regular blood test, and will have another chat with him, I suppose it’s just a learning curve for me at the minute, getting to know what’s normal for me x