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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Lasix, also known as furosemide, is a diuretic and is a prescription medication commonly used after surgery. It is given to increase urine output which in turn can decrease blood pressure, edema, fluid overload, and can stimulate the kidneys when they are not working properly. Lasix is used to decrease the amount of fluid in the body, particularly in the veins and arteries of the body. If the body is holding too much fluid, it can increase stress on the heart, cause fluid to build up in the lungs, and can also cause swelling, typically in the legs and feet. Triggering the body to increase urine output can help treat these conditions. John Fedele / Getty Images Why It's Used After Surgery Lasix is used after surgery for a variety of reasons. Patients who have congestive heart failure will be monitored closely for fluid overload after a procedure, and if the condition is worsening after surgery, Lasix may be given to reduce the workload of the heart. If congestive heart failure occurs, or large amounts of fluid are being retained, the lungs can also be affected. If this extra fluid begins to build in the lungs, a serious condition called pulmonary edema may result, which can make it difficult to provide the body with enough oxygen. Removing this extra fluid can improve heart and lung function. Swelling, especially in the legs, can also be an issue after surgery. Fluid retention is often a problem, especially if the patient is not getting up to walk or is receiving ICU level care. Some surgeries require ample fluids to be provided during the procedure, especially open-heart surgery that is done “on pump.” For these patients, removing this extra fluid in the first days of recovery is helpful. For some individuals, the kidneys may not work as well after surgery as they typically do, this may be due to receiving anesthesia. For these individuals, a dose or even several doses of Lasix may help “kick start” the kidneys and help them return to full function. The same is true after experiencing kidney failure, or even after a kidney transplant. Some patients take Lasix routinely at home for a variety of kidney, liver, and heart conditions. For these individuals, the Lasix given in the hospital may be a continuation of their daily medications that help maintain the fluid balance in the body at a better
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