medication problems

[epiphone]

I am a newbie who recently left hospital having been diagnosed with heart failure with the usual selection of meds, most of which caused problems for me of extremely low blood pressure. I have never suffered with high blood pressure, yet 3 of them were intended to lower it. My blood is nice and runny, so the daily aspirin just makes any bleed an event. I have seen another cardiologist for a second opinion, and now only take a diuretic called furosemide every other day. However, I am now starting to again suffer from lung congestion at night time, which had been eliminated, so obviously need to increase the diuretic. Does anyone know of one that does not reduce blood pressure?

[Nathan53]

To the best of my knowledge all diuretics will have a blood pressure lowering effect. I think you should discuss your concern about your BP with your GP or you could ring one of the Specialist Nurses on the BHF helpline. People who take diuretics can be prone to low blood pressure when changing position as in standing after sitting or lying down. If this happens to you it can be helped by avoiding sudden movement. If you are in a sitting or lying position stand / sit up gradually. Wearing elastic support stockings can help but again check with GP or Practice Nurse before buying anything.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

You are on what is called a loop-diuretic. All diuretics tend to lower blood pressure but the ones that have the least effect are potassium-sparing-diuretics. These, though, can have other side effects. However, it is well worth discussing with your GP as they might be suitable and work for you

[shopman]

When do you take your furosemide. I had similar and ballooned up like Michelin Man. Ended up with 240mg of furosemide each day and now have it under control. I have been able to reduce the dose to just 80mg now but take them at lunchtime as found taking them in the morning had no effect. Now it is like University Challenge - a starter for 10. One of the most important issues however was regular blood tests for kidney function to make sure they were not having an adverse effect.

I would urge you talk it over with your GP/Consultant to be on the safe side.