Diuretics are often given as a first line of defense against hypertension. Why could diuretics potentially reduce hypertension?

• A. Diuretics cause the body to retain water, lowering sodium concentration in the blood.
• B. Diuretics cause the body to increase urine production, lowering blood volume and aiding in the removal of sodium in the urine.
• C. Diuretics cause the body to retain water, leading to a net movement of water from the blood and into cells by osmosis.
• D. Diuretics cause the body to increase urine production, helping the body to remove excess potassium from extracellular fluid.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of diuretics: Diuretics are medications that increase urine production by the kidneys. This process helps the body eliminate excess water and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium.
2. Analyze the connection between blood volume and blood pressure: Blood pressure is influenced by the volume of blood in the circulatory system. Reducing blood volume through increased urine production can lower blood pressure, which is beneficial for managing hypertension.
3. Examine the role of sodium in hypertension: Sodium contributes to water retention in the body, which can increase blood volume and pressure. Diuretics help remove excess sodium through urine, reducing its concentration in the blood and lowering blood pressure.
4. Clarify the mechanism of water movement: Diuretics do not cause water to move into cells by osmosis. Instead, they directly increase urine production, which reduces blood volume and pressure.
5. Evaluate the role of potassium: While diuretics can affect potassium levels, their primary function in managing hypertension is to reduce blood volume and sodium levels, not specifically to remove excess potassium.