Saturday, May 16, 2009

Can a diuretic pill help varicose veins?

Absolutely not. There are many physicians who routinely prescribe diuretic pills for varicose veins. This is quite frankly medical malpractice and is based on ignorance/stupidity on part of the physician. Diuretics have never been approved for varicose veins and how this idea started is a mystery.

With varicose veins, the swelling is mild and is more due to blood pooling in superficial veins in one leg. There is no generalized fluid retention like that seen in congestive heart failure and thus, diuretics do not work. By elevating the leg and using compression garments, one can quickly remedy the swelling which occurs with varicose veins.

Diuretics can induce dehydration, cause a number of significant electrolyte changes in the body, plus one has to take them for life. all patients who take diuretics need routine blood work to ensure that their electrolytes are within normal. So next time your MD gives you a prescription of a diuretic for varicose veins, see a lawyer next.

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