Diuretics are any substance which causes the body to increase the production of urine, thereby excreting more water and salts from the blood and soft tissues. Typically, when we talk about diuretics, we are discussing "water pills," which may be prescribed or purchased over-the-counter. Such medications may be prescribed to someone who has high blood pressure. Taking a diuretic increases the output of fluids from the body, reducing the intravascular volume and making it easier for the heart to circulate blood. Diuretics do affect the viscosity of blood. With less "water" in the plasma, blood becomes a little bit thicker. This difference in viscosity may not be noticeable to the naked eye, and would most likely require testing of blood pressure and blood serum levels to be recognized as a change in blood viscosity. When taking a diuretic, it's important to make sure you are taking in enough water to avoid dehydration.
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