A new weekly column looking at common treatments. This week conventional drug: Diuretic and an alternative remedy for Echinacea.
Conventional drug: Diuretic
What is it? Diuretic medications - often known as water tablets - help to convert excess water in the body into urine. Although there are many different types of diuretic drugs, they all work on the kidneys and alter the amount of water and salts in the body. Some common water tablets are: Frusemide (Frumil, Lasix), Hydrochlorothiazide (Moduret), bendroflumethiazide (Centyl) and Bumetanide (Burinex).
What's it good for? Diuretic medications, available on prescription only, are commonly used for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and to treat heart failure, where the heart's pumping mechanism has become weak. They are also used in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome (a kidney disorder) and cirrhosis of the liver.
How does it work? By interfering with the filtration of salts such as potassium and sodium in the kidneys, the amount of these salts and water usually absorbed into the bloodstream is altered. This increases the amount of urine produced and reduces the volume of blood circulating. The resulting reduction in blood volume reduces the work of the heart. Increased frequency of urination leads to a reduction of oedema (ankle swelling) and those with heart failure usually find that breathlessness due to fluid in the lungs is also reduced.
Any contraindications? Certain diuretic drugs can increase the possibility of developing gout. In addition, they may also increase blood sugar levels which may cause problems for those with diabetes. For those with co-existing conditions your doctor will prescribe a diuretic that will have least effect on other conditions and medications.
Possible side-effects? Certain diuretic drugs can cause imbalances in the blood chemicals. This problem can be solved with the inclusion of potassium rich foods in the diet (fresh fruit and vegetables) or supplements. - Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative remedy: Echinacea
What is it? Echinacea is a herbal remedy derived from the echinacea plant. The echinacea purpurea, a purple coneflower plant is the most popular variety of echinacea used.
How does it work? It is believed to work by increasing the white blood-cell count in the body and thereby strengthening the immune system and thus enabling the body to fight off viral and bacterial infections. More specifically, echinacea is believed to stimulate a group of cells known as the macrophages which destroy bacteria and viruses.
What is it good for? It is deemed to be excellent as part of a health maintenance regime. It is particularly noted for its effectiveness in preventing viral infections such as colds, influenza and secondary bacterial infections such as chest and ear infections. It is also believed to have anti-fungal properties and is thus used as a treatment for thrush and some skin problems. In tropical climates, it is taken as a treatment for diarrhoea.
Any contraindications or drawbacks? It is not recommended for those who are using immuno-suppressant medication. There is some evidence that echinacea is not suitable for sufferers from auto-immune diseases such as multiple sclerosis or disorders in which a heightened immune system response may be counterproductive (eg AIDS, leukaemia and tuberculosis). It is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
Possible side-effects? There are no known side-effects. However, those who take echinacea on a daily basis are advised to take a break for one week in eight. - Sylvia Thompson