Hydrochlorothiazide is a medication used to prevent the absorption of too much salt in the body, which causes fluid retention. It can be prescribed to treat fluid retention (edema) in people with a number of health problems like congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, kidney disorders or swelling caused by specific medications, states Drugs.com. There may be other uses of the medication, including the treatment of high blood pressure. As with any medication, hydrochlorothiazide has the risk of side effects.
Less Serious Side Effects
Some patients may experience mild side effects with the use of hydrochlorothiazide that can improve over time as the body adjusts to the drug. Such effects can include diarrhea, mild abdominal pain, constipation or blurred vision. EMedTV.com also reports patients may experience a short-term drop in blood pressure, increased blood sugar or hair loss. Discuss the side effects with your doctor if you find that they are not improving over time or seem to be moderate or severe.
Serious Side Effects
Mouth dryness, increased thirst, nausea or vomiting are not usual reactions to the medication, but have been reported. Any changes in energy such as weakness, drowsiness, restlessness or light-headedness should be reported to a doctor. Other serious effects can include pain or weakness in the muscles, numbness or tingling sensations. The drug may impact the liver negatively, even causing liver failure. Signs of this, as reported by Drugs.com, include nausea, stomach pain, low fever, reduced appetite, darkened urine, clay-colored stools or yellowing of the skin or the eyes. The skin may also become red, blister or peel, indicating allergy or sensitivity to the drug. Any serious side effects should be reported to a doctor as they may indicate an underlying issue.
Complications
Patients with existing medical conditions or who are using certain medications may not be well-suited for hydrochlorothiazide use. Because the medication increases urine quantity and frequency it is important to avoid the drug if you have an existing urinary problem that might prevent you from eliminating the fluids, states Drugs.com. Alcohol use is not recommended as it can exacerbate the side effects of hydrochlorothiazide. Other conditions that may cause complications with the medication include kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, allergies, gout, diabetes or an allergy to sulfa drugs, states Drugs.com.
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