Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while using thiazide diuretics as follows:
- Drink 2.5 liters to 3 liters of fluid every day, as thiazide diuretics tend to cause loss of fluid volume and consequently, dehydration. If fluid is restricted in an individual for reasons, such as, congestive heart failure or dialysis dependent status, compliance to the recommendation made is very important.
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of dehydration and hypotension, to avoid any episodes of loss of consciousness and accidental falls. One should stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating heavy machinery, until they are used to the side effects caused by the thiazide diuretic.
- Try changing the positions very slowly, as sudden change of positions can make the hypotensive episodes even worse and precipitate accidents and falls.
- Thiazide diuretics decrease potassium levels in the body. Potassium supplements could be recommended in patients with serious risk for hypokalemia. Be compliant with any such recommendation made to avoid any issues of serious cardiac arrhythmias due to hypokalemia.
- Be cautious about using any other medications with the risk for causing hypokalemia. Discuss with your physician regarding all your current medications along with any new medications prescribed for risk of hypokalemia and consequent cardiac arrhythmias.
