Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia Muscle fatigue

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview

The human body requires potassium in order to perform many of its vital functions. This mineral is an essential component of the sodium-potassium ion pump that helps generate electrical impulses in nerve cells and drive other critical cellular functions. However, the level of potassium must be maintained within a healthy range. It is the function of the kidneys to ensure this. An abnormal increase of potassium level in the blood is known as hyperkalemia. Mild fluctuations do not normally produce any adverse symptoms. However, an extreme imbalance can have severe consequences including paralysis, irregular heart rhythm, and even heart failure.

 

Definition

HYPERKALEMIA foods‘Hyperkalemia’ refers to elevated levels of potassium in the blood.

A normal blood potassium level ranges from 3.5 to 5mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter) in adults.

When the level of blood potassium lies between 5.1 to 6.0 mEq/L it is considered to indicate mild hyperkalemia. 6.1 to 7.0 mEq/L is considered moderate hyperkalemia. When the level of potassium in the blood exceeds this figure it is considered to be a case of severe hyperkalemia.

This can result either from excessive intake of potassium or from an insufficient elimination of excess electrolyte. Hyperkalemia may also occur in the event of major injuries involving significant hemolysis or breakdown of red blood cells which causes them to release potassium into the bloodstream. Since the regulation of blood electrolytes is primarily managed by the kidneys, any imbalance is normally associated with some form of disturbance in kidney function.

 

Causes

The amount of potassium than a normal diet offers usually exceeds the body’s requirements. As much as 90% of this excess potassium is eliminated by the kidneys through the urine. Hence, in 3 out of 4 cases, hyperkalemia is brought about by the failure of the kidneys. It is also associated with adrenal insufficiency. This is an endocrine disorder in which the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate quantities of the hormone aldosterone which is responsible for regulating the elimination of potassium through the urine. Hyperkalemia can also be brought on by any condition that causes extensive lysis or breakdown of red blood cells. A fuller list of possible causes is provided below.

  • Renal disorders such as chronic kidney disease or kidney failure. Those who have received kidney transplants are also at an increased risk of developing hyperkalemia.
  • Adrenal gland disorders such as Addison’s disease.
  • Taking certain medications.
  • Dehydration.
  • Excess intake of potassium supplements.
  • HIV infection.
  • Large burns or significant injuries causing the breakdown of red blood cells which then release the potassium contained in them.
  • Severe trauma leading to significant muscle damage.
  • Blood transfusion.
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis.
  • Medical conditions such as Gordon’s syndrome.

 

Symptoms

Hyperkalemia Muscle fatiguePatients with mildly elevated potassium levels in the blood may be entirely asymptomatic or the symptoms may be subtle and nonspecific.

This makes it difficult to diagnose the condition accurately. Symptoms may be slow to appear if the potassium content in the blood rises gradually rather than suddenly.

Potassium is mainly involved in generating nerve impulses and regulating muscular activity, most notably with regard to the heart and digestive system.

Hence it is these functions that are directly affected when blood potassium levels exceed the normal limits to a significant degree.

  • Weakness and fatigue.
  • Heart palpitations.
  • Paralysis.
  • Difficulty in breathing.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Chest pain.
  • Tingling or pricking sensation.

 

Clinical Complications

Potassium directly influences the electrical impulses that control heart contractions. Hence, severe hyperkalemia is typically associated with significant cardiac consequences. Rapid bursts of heart activity (fibrillation) can lead to cardiac arrest. The disturbance in normal electrical activity associated with cardiac muscles may also cause the heart to slow down or totally flatline.

 

Diagnosis

Diagnosing hyperkalemia can be challenging. Blood tests showing elevated levels of potassium in the blood may not be conclusive and may have to be repeated. This is because the process of collecting the blood sample can itself sometimes lead to rupture of red blood cells causing a false elevation of potassium content in the readings. This is known as pseudohyperkalemia. However, if the symptoms displayed by the patient are consistent with those of abnormally elevated levels of potassium in the blood, the blood test may be repeated, accompanied by urine tests to confirm the results.

The physician may be alerted to the possibility of hyperkalemia by examining the patient’s medical history to check for any medications that may have disturbed kidney function, other medical conditions that could trigger abnormal levels of potassium in the blood or for significant injuries that might also be responsible for hyperkalemia. Since the primary complication associated with hyperkalemia is abnormal heart rhythm and weak pulse, an electrocardiogram is usually necessary to assess heart function. However, it is widely acknowledged in clinical practice that this is not necessarily conclusive. Severe cases of hyperkalemia have been known to present without any suspicious heart activity.

 

Treatment and prevention

HYPERKALEMIA arrythmiaTreatment – Treatment for hyperkalemia must be individualized based upon the underlying cause of hyperkalemia, the severity of the symptoms, or appearance in the ECG change, and the overall health status of the patient. Treatment may include any one of the following or a combination of methods

  • Low potassium diet for the patient (in minor cases)
  • Discontinue medications that can increase the blood potassium level.
  • Sodium bicarbonate administration to counteract acidosis and to promote movement of potassium from the extracellular space back into the cells.
  • Medications known as cation-exchange resins, which bind potassium and lead it to excretion through the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Intravenous calcium to protect the heart and the muscles from the effects of hyperkalemia.
  • Intravenous administration of glucose and insulin, which promotes the movement of potassium from the extracellular space between the cells.
  • Dialysis, particularly if other measures have failed in case of renal failure.

Prevention 

  • Follow a low potassium diet if needed – Make sure to ask your healthcare specialist or dietitian about the quantity of potassium that is right for you. Eating too much can be harmful and having a little can cause problems.
  • Try avoiding certain salt substances – Certain salt substances are high in potassium levels. Those with a kidney disease should avoid them.
  • Avoid herbal remedies and supplements – Make sure to consult your healthcare specialist to know if the herbal remedy that you wish to take does not increase potassium levels.
  • Take water pills or potassium binders – Some people may need to remove the extra potassium that is present in their body and make sure that it does not come back.

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • Make sure to have your medications exactly as prescribed.
  • Have low potassium foods.
  • Discontinue any oral supplements of potassium.
Don'ts
  • Indulge in any strenuous activities.
  • Use a salt substitute without consulting your doctor.
  • Consume yam, sweet potatoes, kidney beans, avocado, bananas, fig, kiwis etc. as they are high in potassium.

 

 

 

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Shilajit: A miracle Himalayan herb for an active and happy life The Himalayas contain more wonders than you thought. Shilajit is a miracle herb that is widely used in…
Jack in the box fast food
Jack In the Box : The perils of surging fast food culture in the USA Jack in the Box - How a culture of fast-food can clog your arteries, weaken your heart, fatten…
anti ds dna test
Anti Ds-DNA antibody Test The  Anti Ds-DNA antibody test is used to diagnose the disease called lupus or more aptly the SLE(Systematic…
These are the top foods to increase your hemoglobin count It is important to add iron-rich foods into your diet in order to increase hemoglobin. Deficiency of hemoglobin could…
Vagus nerve: 7 health benefits of stimulating the “gut-brain” connection As a matter of fact, there are two vagus nerves namely the left and the right but is…
Chest X-Ray A chest x-ray is a diagnostic test that uses x-rays to visualize the structures inside your chest. It…
CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try CLA supplements, derived…
HSV-1_IGG
Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes simplex virus I(HSV)-IgG is an Immunoglobulin protein that acts as an antibody & stays in the blood…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
What is Qigong and how can it help you channelize you inner “Qi”? Qigong is an integrated way of performing a traditional exercise regimen that can help in promoting health, mental…
Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody (tTG) Test Transglutaminase is an enzyme present in our body and is involved in protein metabolism. A tTg test is…
6 arguments in favour of glucosamine and where can you find it Studies have shown that glucosamine works by preventing the breakdown of cartilage of the joints. This is usually…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
vital organ diseases
Common diseases that could cripple your vital organs Brain, heart, kidney, lungs, and liver - these vital organs are indeed vital for your survival. However, these…
Cordyceps: How the Caterpillar fungus works as a proven cancer-shield Strange as it may sound, but cordyceps or "caterpillar fungus", a fungus variety native to the Himalayas may…
reflexology massage
Top reasons why you should go for a reflexology massage today Reflexology involves the application of pressure to your feet and hands to encourage self-healing. Could this be beneficial…
General adaptation syndrome: Understanding stress, one step at a time The struggle of the body to produce hormones during a stressful situation is the main theme of general…
Thyroid disorders
Thyroid Profile Thyroid profile is a panel of blood tests performed to check if an individual is suffering from any…
Tamarind: The top health benefits of this staple Asian ingredient Did you know this sweet and sour pulpy fruit does more than just add a tangy flavor to…
Hibiscus: Nourish your beauty and health with these vibrant blooms Hibiscus is a trumpet shaped flower found abundantly in tropical countries. It has been historically used for its…
Erythritol: A healthy sugar substitute or yet another marketing ploy? Erythritol is a popular choice of a healthy alternative sweetening agent in foods. But how healthy can a…
Trisodium Phosphate: How a paint thinner made its way into your breakfast Ever thought how toxic chemicals find their way into our foods? How can they harm our body? And…
Miracle extract from the root of maca: 10 ways it can help you! Maca root has been used for years in herbal medicine. Today scientific research is unearthing fresh evidence in…
folate test
Folate test The Folate test measures and monitors the levels of folic acid in the blood. This test is also…
Psyllium Husk: More than just an effective natural laxative Psyllium husk, or isabgol, is a popular natural laxative . But did you in addition to regulating bowels,…
Alp enzyme-test
ALP test – Alkaline Phosphate ALP or alkaline phosphate is an enzyme mainly produced by the liver and gallbladder. ALP test measures the…
Ca 19.9 test
CA19.9 Test CA 19.9 is a cancer antigen that exists on the surface of cancer-causing cells. The levels of CA…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
edamame
Edamame: How healthy are these green baby beans? Edamame or "immature" soybeans are soft and easily digestable forms of soybeans that are great as an eveyday…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium chloride
Halotherapy: How inhaling salt can work wonders for your body Halotherapy is quickly gaining popularity amongst those with respiratory diseases. It has shown promise in its treatment.
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…

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Welcome to your Nutrient Deficiency Quiz

What type of sun rays help synthesize vitamin D?
Which disorder is characterized by inability to speak in certain social situations?
Beriberi is caused by the lack of this micronutrient-
Can stuttering be genetic?
Which of these vitamins are needed for calcium absorption by the body?
What is scoliosis?
People with darker skin are more prone to vitamin D deficiency.
If you have thiamine deficiency, which of these should you avoid consuming with your thiamine rich diet?
Which of the following is a speech disorder that affects the pronunciation of letters like s, z, r?
Consumption of mushrooms exposed to UVB rays help with low vitamin D levels.

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