High Potassium Diagnosis

According to the Mayo Clinic, hyperkalemia (high potassium level) is most commonly the result of kidney dysfunction (like chronic or acute kidney failure). The condition is a serious metabolic condition with the potential to create life-threatening complications.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of hyperkalemia may include paralysis, weakness, nausea, fatigue of the muscles and arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm). There are also specific electrocardiograph changes which indicate the condition.

Causes

• Additional causes of high potassium include medications (like angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors), hormone deficiencies, alchoholism, heavy drug use and extensive damage of red blood cells (from burns or severe injuries).

What To Expect At the Doctor's Office

• Your doctor will need to review your medical history along with a complete list of medications that you are taking, perform a physical examination and run laboratory tests.

Diagnosis

• Your doctor will evaluate your kidney function, ECG changes, potassium levels and acidosis to determine the best course of treatment to manage your condition and prevent complications like fatal arrhythmia.

Treatment

• Medications used to treat acute hyperkalemia include calcium gluconate, insulin, albuterol, Lasix and sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Each medication has unique interactions and side effects.

Long-term Treatment

• Long term treatment should focus on the underlying cause of the condition. Patients should follow diets low in potassium, discontinue any medications which may contribute to the condition and potentially use diuretic medications.