Diuretics Healthcare professionals and scientists have carefully prepared this ALtruis Biomedical Network-affiliated site, intended for informational purposes only . In general, they increase the rate of sodium excretion from the body. Many people notice that eating salty foods causes them to retain fluids. They may notice that their eyes are puffy or their ankles are swollen.
Salt is sodium chloride.
A diuretic that causes sodium to be lost in the urine decreases the volume of the extracellular water. When excess fluid accumulates in tissues or body cavities, problems can occur. Other diseases associated with excess fluid accumulation include congestive heart failure , cirrhosis of the liver and the nephrotic syndrome. Diuretics are frequently used in the treatment of these diseases. The long term effect is due to reduction in the resistance of vessels to blood flow which results in lower blood pressure.