What is a potential outcome of diuretic resistance?

The potential outcome of diuretic resistance is fluid retention, which occurs when the body does not respond effectively to diuretics intended to remove excess fluid. In heart failure patients, diuretics are commonly used to manage symptoms such as edema and pulmonary congestion by promoting urination and reducing fluid overload. However, when a patient experiences diuretic resistance, their kidneys may retain sodium and water despite medication use, leading to continued fluid accumulation in the body.

Increased urine production is not associated with diuretic resistance; in fact, resistance typically results in decreased effectiveness of the diuretic, and the expected increase in urine output does not occur. Similarly, normalization of blood pressure is unlikely since fluid overload can contribute to hypertension, which is not alleviated in cases of diuretic resistance. Stabilization of heart rhythm may not be directly impacted by fluid management through diuretics; therefore, fluid retention is the primary outcome related to diuretic resistance in heart failure management.