Over-the-counter diuretics are purchased by many who have a temporary problem with water retention, such as premenstrual water retention or holding fluid from eating the wrong foods like something really salty. You do not need a prescription for these drugs. Too much salt causes people to retain water. When an individual uses these drugs in this manner, they are very safe. However, some people who have eating disorders misuse diuretics, thinking that they will cause weight loss. The only weight loss you experience is water weight, and this is a temporary loss. Becoming addicted to over-the-counter diuretics (OTC diuretics) can be very dangerous and damaging to a person’s physical health.
Addicted to Over-the-Counter Diuretics
Abuse of over-the-counter diuretics can be very dangerous. Our bodies need to be hydrated properly in order to function as they should. Abusing these medications can impair your health in many ways and also lead to a psychological addiction to them. Diuretics are not physically addictive in a way that you will have painful withdrawal symptoms when stopping them, but psychological addiction can also lead to many physical problems. Taking too many of these pills will cause dehydration, which can lead to a loss of many essential vitamins and minerals. In addition to that, when the body is not hydrated as it should be, water is removed from tissues and organs, which can cause permanent damage to valuable organs, which is irreparable. It is very important to replenish your body’s water daily to remain healthy.
Eating Disorders and OTC Diuretics
Not eating a healthy diet or eating and purging is very dangerous and, in many cases, leads to death. When a person has an eating disorder, they will do almost anything to keep weight off in any way possible. This is why they often turn to laxatives or over-the-counter diuretics and diet pills to help in this endeavor. Eating disorders are serious disorders, and depleting the body of its essential fluids can lead to damaging the kidneys, liver, and heart. Organ failure will lead to death.
Seek Help for Addiction to Over-the-Counter Diuretics
If you have a loved one who you think may be addicted to over-the-counter diuretics, don’t ignore the problem and expect it to just go away. Many times abusing diuretics can be a sign of a much bigger problem such as an eating disorder or other mental disorder. Talk with your loved ones and explore any issues they may be having. Let them know that you are concerned about their health and that you care for them. Don’t be judgmental or combative, but let them know that you want to help in any way you can. Many times when these issues are discovered early enough, individuals can get the help they need and return to a healthy lifestyle and a much happier life.
If you are addicted to over-the-counter diuretics, don’t wait for someone else to step in. Seek help from a licensed, professional facility that has physicians and counselors who can get you back to your good health and restore your self-esteem and self-confidence. Don’t wait. Do it today!
