water restriction,kidney health

I have just been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and have started treatment with diuretics,which is helping to control my symptoms,but I am concerned about the fluid restriction,and how this will affect the kidneys long term.
does a fluid restriction of one litre a day cause risk to the kidneys,and is there anything that can be done to avoid kidney problems?
thanks for your advice

[gmachris518]

As someone who has CHF, I've never been restricted on the amount of fluid I can have, so what you are saying is new to me.

However, as a stage 5 renal failure patient, fluid restriction is a way of life for me, for various reasons, but the main reason is to keep the amount of fluid that needs to be removed by dialysis to a minimum, thus allowing the dialysis to do it's job more effectively.

I also have been told by several specialists that the kidneys are one of the main blood using organs in the body.  So, I assume that if you give them less to remove, then they will not have to work as hard, thus not use as much blood, and therefore not put undo stress on the ailing heart.  Which is most likely the reason that dialysis can increase the heart's function, even though the kidneys aren't working.

I believe CHF basically is a term used to describe a condition where the heart isn't working well enough to keep the fluid from building up in the body(usually from the liver down, but can fill the lungs under some circumstances.)  With that said, I believe, fluid restrictions "might" help, but your diurectics should do a good job IF you take them regulary.  Also, if you have an ailing heart, then your kidneys, among other main organs are under stress, and need to be checked regulary, regardless of fluid restrictions, etc.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? You will need to carefully monitor yourself and help manage your condition. Keeping track of your weight on a daily basis is important. Weight gain can be a sign that you are retaining fluid and that your heart failure is worsening. Diuretics help rid your body of fluid and salt. Weigh yourself at the same time each day and on the same scale, with as little clothes on to be more accurate. Also, take your medications as directed, stay active, avoid smoking and limit your salt intake. Regular follow-up with your doctor is highly recommended. Take care and best regards.