Since adding triamterene hctz to diltiazem several months ago I have developed a severe chronic cough, non-productive. This is adversely affecting my work and client interaction. I don't find this as a side effect. Also, I have spotty pain in my hands, feet, back, and legs...quite painful. Could these be side effects not usually noted?
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Q: Don't find chronic cough as side effect triamterene hctz but have one since taking this med. Is ok?
Answers (1)
12/ 4/08 4:47pm
diffylady,
Thanks for your question.
Diuretics can cause low potassium levels that can result in muscle cramping, and this might account for some of your discomfort.
As for the cough, I have never seen this side effect from diuretics, nor am I aware of it from the literature. Though not reported, it is always possible for you to be the first to have this experience. This should be discussed with your physician. However, in addition to making a change, I would want to be sure that there is no other existing cause for your chronic cough. Ask your doctor to look for causes which include: infection of the throat, pharynx, and lungs; chronic laryngitis; allergies; growths on the vocal cords; growths in the lungs; post nasal drip; gastric reflux; and, chronic sinusitis. You may require an ENT evaluation and some X-rays. This evaluation should be performed because cough is not commonly associated with the diuretics, and you wouldn't want to miss something because an assumption was made that is was just a side effect.
Best wishes.
Martin Cane, M.D.
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By diffylady— Last Modified: 11/22/10, First Published: 12/04/08
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Being a family physician i wish to add a point to ur advice to diffylady.
Check for diabetes or high blood sugar (since u complain of pain or discomfort of ur leg), if positive get it treated to recover from cough.