Causes of Hyperkalemia

Potassium is an important electrolyte in the human body. The level of electrolytes in the body is usually regulated through the diet and the intake of electrolytes is based on the diet that is consumed. However, one can also receive electrolytes through oral supplements or through intravenous treatment when there is a serious deficiency. Hyperkalemia on the other hand is a condition where the level of potassium in the body is higher than normal. In cases of severe elevation, it is considered to be a medical emergency condition which would require immediate medical care. An imbalance of this sort in the electrolyte level of the body could cause the heart rhythm to be affected which is a serious problem that can be fatal.

One problem with managing hyperkalemia is that the hyperkalemia symptoms do not necessarily point to the conditions. The symptoms are extremely generic including weakness, increased pace of breathing and a general feeling of ill health. These symptoms could point to almost any condition which makes it slightly difficult to understand that the patient is suffering from hyperkalemia. A diagnosis is usually made using a blood test which could be a routine test or could be ordered due to the presentation of symptoms. There are many different causes for hyperkalemia. If the kidneys are not functioning properly then the effective removal of excess potassium may not take place. This would cause the occurrence of hyperkalemia. If an excessive amount of potassium is released from the cells of the body, then hyperkalemia can occur. Finally, it could also be caused by intentional or unintentional excessive consumption. Hyperkalemia is induced during the process of lethal injection which is used to execute prisoners in some countries.

There is an acidosis hyperkalemia relationship as well. Acidosis is a condition where the acidity level of the blood is increased. When this happens, the body tends to take up hydrogen into the cells and release potassium into the blood stream. When a patient suffers from kidney failure, it can lead to chronic hyperkalemia because the kidneys will not be able to remove enough potassium from the blood.

There are several emergency treatments for hyperkalemia that could be administered. Primarily, calcium may be supplemented in the blood in order to reduce the risk of a cardiac episode. Depending on the cause of hyperkalemia, the treatment could use insulin or bicarbonate therapy. A person with chronic hyperkalemia will be required to modify his or her diet in order to reduce potassium intake.