Blood Potassium Levels |
|
Low Potassium (Hypokalemia):
(Ref. The Merck Manual of Health Aging) |
A slight but continuous decrease in the potassium level (low potassium levels) over
a period of time causes the body to produce less insulin. As a result, the level
of sugar in the blood may increase. If the potassium level becomes very low, fatigue,
confusion, and muscle weakness and cramps typically occur. A very low potassium
level may even cause paralysis and abnormal and irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
The causes of hypokalemia can include diarrhea and vomiting, some types of diuretics
(drugs that remove water from the body through urine), overuse of laxatives, diabetes
and certain kidney diseases.
|
|
|
|
Caution: Use of potassium supplements can be dangerous unless monitored
closely by your doctor. When potassium is used with medications such as ACE inhibitors,
there is a risk of developing a high level of potassium (Hyperkalemia) |
|
|
|
High Potassium (Hyperkalemia): (Ref. The
Merck Manual of Health Aging) |
|
A high potassium level (hyperkalemia) is much more dangerous than a low potassium
level. |
|
|
It is often the result of kidney failure or use of drugs that reduce the amount
of potassium excreted by the kidneys. When a person who takes one of these blood
pressure lowering drugs also eats potassium-rich foods or takes a potassium supplement,
the kidneys cannot always excrete the potassium. In such cases, the potassium level
in the blood can increase rapidly.
The first symptom of a high potassium level may be an abnormal heart rhythm.
When doctors suspect a high potassium level, electrocardiography (ECG) may help
with the diagnosis. This procedure can detect changes in the heart's rhythm that
occur when the potassium level is high.
People with a high potassium level must stop eating potassium-rich foods and stop
taking potassium salts. (for eg. meat, poultry and fish, bananas, spinach, orange
and orange juice, canteloupe, avocado, prunes, tomatoes, vegetable juices and many
more. Talk to your dietitian about these foods and nutrient rich alternatives.)
If the heart rhythm is abnormal, calcium is given intravenously. This treatment
can help protect the heart.
|
| |
| Register Now to start using this Nutrition Tool OR Go to My Dashboard |
| |
|
|
|
|