by Melanie Grimes

Created on: April 05, 2011   Last Updated: April 06, 2011

Hyperkalemia is a condition caused by an excess of potassium in the body. As the body ages, kidney function is compromised. Because the kidneys are charged with eliminating excess potassium from the blood, potassium can build to overdose levels as the kidney function decreases. Diseases such as kidney failure, and obstructive uropathy can cause hyperkalemia. Injuries to tissues, such as burns, bleeding in the gut, surgery, and tumors can all cause the cells to release potassium into the blood.

What is Potassium?

Potassium, the seventh most abundant element on earth, is needed by every cell in the body and is vital in all plant life on the plant. This element influences the function of muscles and is needed for proper functioning the heart and the digestion.

Dietary Sources of Potassium

Potassium is easily sourced from many fruits of vegetables, such as bananas, oranges, lemons and grapefruits. It is also found in meats and fish, such as salmon, founder and cod. Potatoes and lima beans also contain potassium. 

What are the Symptoms of Hyperkalemia?

The kidneys are in charge of eliminating excess potassium. Poor kidney function contributes to this condition, as do some drug interactions. The condition often has no symptoms. An irregular heartbeat sometimes occurs, as does nausea and a weak pulse. Loss of consciousness, weakness, and changes in breathing can signal an acute attack of hyperkalemia. Muscle control can weaken, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) can occur and the pulse may feel weak or absent.

Tests and Treatments

An ECG test is used to show heart irregularities that can be caused by the condition. Blood tests for serum potassium levels are the usual diagnostic tool. Because cardiac arrest is possible, dialysis and diuretic medication are used to lower to potassium levels in the blood. Intravenous calcium is sometimes added, along with glucose or insulin, to reverse symptoms. Close monitoring is needed for this potentially life threatening condition. Continually monitoring of serum potassium is required.

Drug Interactions and Hyperkalemia

Certain drugs can cause an imbalance in potassium metabolism and contribute to hyperkalemia. ACE inhibitors as well as anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs can both disrupt kidney function and potassium excretion. Antibiotics, such as trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, can cause this condition.

Prevention

Monitoring serum potassium is needed to prevent the symptoms of hyperkalemia. If drug interactions are the cause, the drugs need to be monitored. Diseases that cause the condition must be treated promptly.

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