Diuretic Joint Pain

There appears to be a connection between joint pain and taking diuretics. Diuretics are water pills. When taking a diuretic, your body gets rid of excess salt and water through your urine. Eliminating salt and fluid helps your heart to pump easier and lowers your blood pressure. However, there are some drawbacks to taking diuretics.

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that involves joint inflammation caused by uric acid crystals, which are deposited in joint tissue. This condition can be worsened if you take diuretic medications. Taking a diuretic has been known to prompt an attack of gout, resulting in joint pain, according to Health24.com.

Joints and Cartilage

When you take diuretics you risk becoming dehydrated, which can cause joint pain. The joints and the cartilage in your body are made up of water. Water is needed to transport nutrients in the cartilage.

Effects

If there is little fluid available, the necessary nutrients can't be delivered to the cartilage. The fluids in your body are essential in helping damaged cartilage repair and maintain itself. If there isn't enough fluid available for this purpose, the damage can't be repaired.

Potential

Dehydration may increase the damage that occurs when cartilage has become worn down. This results in joint pain.

Warning

There are numerous reasons why you should proceed with caution before taking a diuretic because this medication can lead to joint pain as well as cramps, diarrhea, lightheadedness and sensitivity to sunlight, according to TheAthlete.org.

References

• The Athlete: Diruetics
• Cause of: Dehydration
• Health 24: Medical Conditions