Hyperkalemia Flashcards
Definition of Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia refers to a condition where the concentration of potassium in the blood exceeds the normal range, which is typically between 3.5 and 5.0 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L).
Symptoms of Hyperkalemia
The symptoms of hyperkalemia can vary depending on the severity and rate of increase in potassium levels. Some common symptoms include:
Weakness or fatigue
Muscle cramps or twitching
Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
Nausea or vomiting
Tingling or numbness
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Changes in urine output
Severe hyperkalemia can be life-threatening and may cause muscle paralysis or cardiac arrest.
Diagnosis of Hyperkalemia
To diagnose hyperkalemia, healthcare providers typically perform the following tests:
Blood tests: A blood sample is taken to measure the levels of potassium and other relevant markers such as kidney function tests, blood pH, and electrolyte levels.
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): An ECG is often done to assess heart rhythm and identify any abnormalities associated with high potassium levels.
Complication of Hyperkalemia
If left untreated, hyperkalemia can lead to several complications, including:
Cardiac arrhythmias: High levels of potassium can disrupt the electrical activity of the heart, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest.
Muscle weakness or paralysis: Excess potassium can interfere with muscle function, leading to weakness or even paralysis.
Kidney problems: Hyperkalemia can impair kidney function, potentially leading to further electrolyte imbalances and fluid retention.
Associated diseases with Hyperkalemia
Kidney dysfunction: Impaired kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury, can lead to reduced potassium excretion and increased levels in the blood.
Medications: Certain medications, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause or contribute to hyperkalemia.
Adrenal insufficiency: Conditions like Addison’s disease, where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient hormones, can lead to hyperkalemia.
Hemolysis: Rapid breakdown of red blood cells, known as hemolysis, can release potassium into the bloodstream.
Acidosis: Metabolic acidosis, a condition characterized by increased acidity in the blood, can cause potassium to shift from cells into the bloodstream.
Treatment of Hyperkalemia
Calcium administration: Intravenous calcium gluconate or calcium chloride may be given to protect the heart from the effects of high potassium levels.
Medications: Diuretics, such as loop diuretics, may be prescribed to increase potassium excretion. Other medications like sodium polystyrene sulfonate or patiromer may be used to bind and remove potassium from the body.
Hemodialysis: In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, hemodialysis may be necessary to remove excess potassium from the bloodstream.
