by Melanie Grimes

Created on: April 06, 2011   Last Updated: April 07, 2011

Hyperkalemia is a medical condition caused by too much potassium in the blood. This common disorder occurs in as many as eight percent of the patients in hospitals in the United States. The condition is usually mild and easy to treat, however a severe rise in serum potassium can be life threatening.

Potassium the Element
Potassium is an element. Potassium is an electrolyte, and classified as a metal.  Common in the earth’s crust, potassium is necessary for all plant growth and for every cell in the body. In fact, potassium is critical for many body functions, including heart rate, muscle function, digestion and bone growth.

Potassium in Food

Potassium is found in many foods, including grains, fruits, vegetables and dairy. Even salmon and cod fish contain potassium. Bananas and citrus fruits are good sources, as are peas, Brussels sprouts and lima beans. Bran is an excellent source as well. Milk and peanut butter also contain potassium.

Symptoms of Hyperkalemia

Weak pulse and muscle weakness can be symptoms of hyperkalemia. Let untreated, Hyperkalemia can lead to stroke or cardiac arrest. Loss of consciousness, irregular heartbeat, and loss of muscle control can ensue. Life untreated the condition can be life threatening.

Hyperkalemia Causes in the Kidneys

The kidneys excrete excess potassium from the blood. When kidney function is compromised, the levels of serum (blood) potassium rise. Kidney disease is one of the main causes of hyperkalemia. Renal failure can lead to hyperkalemia, as can lupus nephritis, glomerulonephritis, and disease that obstruct the urinary tract, such as kidney stones. Salt substitutes can cause the kidneys to malfunction and should be avoided.

Drugs and Medications that Cause Hyperkalemia

Many drugs can cause interactions that deplete the body of potassium, particularly, ACE inhibitors, diuretics and antibiotics. NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can lead to hyperkalemia, as can angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs). Certain antibiotics also deplete serum potassium, such as trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.

Adrenal Cause of Hyperkalemia

The adrenal glands secrete hormones important for many functions. One of these hormones, aldosterone, causes the excretion of potassium in the urine. Diseases of the adrenal glands can lead to hyperkalemia. Addison’s disease can affect the adrenal’s ability to manufacture aldonsterone and lead to hyperkalemia.

Treatment

Hyperkalemia is usually diagnosed by a blood test. Lowering the serum levels of potassium is the next treatment, usually with diuretic drugs or with dialysis. Calcium is sometimes added intravenously as well. Monitoring drug side effects or changing medications is sometimes advised.

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