Hyperkalemia

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Hyperkalemia is a condition where there is a high level of electrolyte potassium in the blood. This is the high level of potassium in the blood and is different from hypokalemia. Symptoms are often related to the fast heart rate detected by ECG changes. There are several causes and treatments are to reduce the level […] Read More

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Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is a condition where there is a high level of electrolyte potassium in the blood. This is the high level of potassium in the blood and is different from hypokalemia. Symptoms are often related to the fast heart rate detected by ECG changes. There are several causes and treatments are to reduce the level of potassium. DIAGNOSIS To test for a high potassium level, your doctor can carry out the following tests:
  • Blood test; to check for potassium level.
  • A serum potassium test 
  • Electrocardiogram  (ECG); shows changes in heart rhythm.
TREATMENT To cure hyperkalemia, your doctor may prescribe the following:
  1. Medications
  • Intravenous calcium gluconate
  • Intravenous insulin with glucose
  • Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (kayexalate)
  1. Diet
Reduce your potassium intake level, avoid any food rich in potassium.  Hyperkalemia vs. Hypokalemia Both conditions are related to potassium levels in the body. But where hyperkalemia is the high level of potassium, hypokalemia is the low potassium level in the blood.

Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

The signs of hyperkalemia may include the following:

  • Development of abnormal heart rhythm 
  • Experience paralysis
  • Fatigue 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Nausea

Causes

CAUSES

There are several causes of high potassium levels. Some may include:

  • Acute kidney failure 
  • Chronic kidney disease 
  • Addison disease (adrenal insufficiencies)
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers 
  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors 
  • Beta-blocker 
  • Dehydration 
  • Destruction of RBC due to severe injury or bruises. 
  • Excessive use of potassium supplements
  • Type 1 diabetes 
  • FAQ

    How do you reverse hyperkalemia? 

    • Take a diet low in potassium (for mild cases).
    • Stop any medication that increases blood potassium level 
    • Administer intravenous calcium gluconate and insulin 

    What medication is used to lower potassium?

    Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (e.g. kayexalate). Take by mouth or by enema 

    What is the most common cause of hyperkalemia?

    The most common cause of genuinely high potassium in the blood is related to your kidneys, viz; acute kidney failure, chronic kidney disease

    Is coffee high in potassium?

    Coffee is considered a low potassium food.

    1 cup of black coffee has 116mg of potassium, however, drinking more than a cup of coffee may yield concentrations of potassium especially when taken 3 to 4 times a day.

    What food help repair kidneys?

    • Red bell pepper
    • Cabbage 
    • Garlic
    • Cauliflower 
    • Onion 
    • Apple

    Cram berries

    Blueberries