Causes and symptoms of high potassium in the blood. Pathology that causes irreversible changes in the body! Increased potassium, causes, symptoms

Normal operation human body is ensured by a sufficient content of all components necessary for life. Deviations from the norm of any of them threaten serious disruption of organ function, and in some cases even lead to death.

One of these elements is potassium - one of the two main components of water-electrolyte metabolism. Moreover, if a decrease in this element in the body is not considered a life-threatening pathology, then the condition when potassium in the blood is elevated is often defined as critical and requires immediate medical attention.

Importance of potassium for the body

The chemical element potassium (K), contained in the human body, is predominantly an intracellular component - its percentage in cells it is 89%, while outside of them it is only 11%. While sodium (N), an element that, along with K, participates in electrolytic metabolism, is mostly located outside the cells, which allows the creation of electrical currents on both sides of the cell membranes.

Except this important function, potassium maintains the body's water-salt balance and acid-base balance blood. Thanks to him, it is possible osmotic pressure and control of the production of a certain number of enzymes, which makes K an indispensable element for protein and carbohydrate metabolism. Potassium plays a major role in protein synthesis and is involved in the conversion of sugars into glycogen.

Without this element, the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract would be impossible ( gastrointestinal tract), and, in particular, the intestines, urinary (kidneys) and of cardio-vascular system. Potassium is directly involved in the functioning of the nervous and muscle tissue, facilitating the transmission of neural impulses to muscle fibers.

Operating principle of the potassium-sodium pump

Why does microelement growth occur?

The main causes of increased K in the blood (hyperkalemia) can be divided into two groups - the first includes factors leading to cell breakdown with subsequent release of the element beyond the membranes. And the second is diseases of the urinary system, which reduce the ability of the kidneys to remove potassium from the body.

In addition, a slight excess of the norm can be observed during physical activity or when there is an excess of foods containing potassium in the diet. Such causes are not pathological only if the K concentration is not too high.

Hyperkalemia due to cell breakdown

Pathological conditions in which there is an increase in potassium in the blood serum include the following:

• oxygen starvation of cellular structures;
• burn disease, decay of neoplasms;
• surgical interventions;
• prolonged fasting or strict diet;
• increased breakdown of glycogen or proteins;
• lack of insulin with high sugar;
• metabolic acidosis (accumulation of acids);
• severe injuries accompanied by tissue compression;
• necrotic formations caused by injury or infection;
• anaphylactic shock (increased permeability of cell membranes).

Potassium is also released due to hemolysis (intracellular and intravascular). Normally, this is a continuous process, as red blood cells go through their life cycle and are destroyed, as a result of which the element enters the blood without changing the usual level of concentration. But when pathological processes autoimmune, infectious, inflammatory or toxic in nature, hemolysis of red cells occurs much faster, which significantly increases the potassium content. Such conditions require urgent further examination and treatment.

Hyperkalemia in pathologies of the urinary system

An increased level of potassium in the blood in many cases means a violation of the functional ability of the organs of the urinary system, and specifically the kidneys. Against the background of such deviations, acute and then chronic renal failure (ARF and CRF) often develops. Such consequences pose a serious threat to the life and health of patients.

So, to diseases urinary system, in which there is increased potassium in the blood, include:

• nephritis (inflammatory process in the kidneys) - lupus or caused by drugs;
• diabetic nephropathy (damage to the kidney vessels) in patients with diabetes;
• decreased excretory function with decreased excretion of potassium ions;
• dehydration due to excessive urine production - polyuria;
• a decrease in diuresis - oliguria and its complete absence - anuria.

Often observed high rate potassium in test results of patients undergoing treatment:

• Potassium-containing drugs. Their excessive administration leads to iatrogenic hyperkalemia, which often develops in patients with chronic renal failure.
• Indomethacin, Captopril, muscle relaxants and potassium-sparing diuretics.
• Glycosides. In some cases, severe intoxication may develop, reducing the activity of K, N and ATP.
• Blood transfusion drugs. Transfusion of old blood risks potassium poisoning.

Impaired production of aldosterone by the adrenal cortex leads to hyperkalemia

In addition, plasma K levels will increase in some types of anemia (decreased red blood cell count), hormonal changes activity of the adrenal cortex, such as Addison's disease. Familial periodic paralysis, a rather rare genetically determined disease, can also increase potassium. With it, an increase in K is observed exclusively during periods of attacks, although this is not necessary. The rest of the time, this indicator may be within normal limits or even lower.

Important! Signs higher level potassium causes muscle weakness and paralysis, which can occur during intense physical activity or other circumstances leading to an imbalance in water and electrolyte balance.

It should be noted that the reasons for women and men leading to an increase in K may differ from factors characteristic of the child. These changes in potassium levels are often caused by uneven growth child's body and have the following normal indicators:

• infants 1 week of life – 3.7–5.9 mmol/l;
• infants and children 3 years old – 4.1–5.3 mmol/l;
• children from 3 to 14 years old – 3.4–4.7 mmol/l.

Whereas for teenagers and adults normal values it is generally accepted to be 3.5–5.1 mmol/l. At the same time, we should not forget about the influence on this indicator of related and chronic diseases which can significantly aggravate the patient's condition.

Main manifestations of hyperkalemia

Symptoms of excess K in the body directly depend on the amount of its content - that is, the higher it is than normal, the more pronounced the symptoms pathological condition patient. The main manifestations of hyperkalemia are:

• muscle weakness, caused by depolarization of cells and deterioration of their excitability;
• fatigue, apathy, lethargy, loss of appetite, drowsiness, lethargy, numbness of the limbs;
• disturbance of cardiac activity, expressed in an increase in the rhythm of myocardial contractions;
• too high a K level can lead to paralysis of the respiratory muscles;
• disturbance of consciousness, sharp jumps blood pressure ( blood pressure), tachycardia, feeling of lack of air, shortness of breath.

The cardiotoxic effects of K are clearly visible on the electrocardiogram (ECG). During the recording, an increase in the PQ interval and a widening of the QRS are immediately detected, the P wave is not recorded and AV conduction slows down. QRS complex due to its width, it merges with the T-wave, causing the curve to resemble a sine wave.

Such changes are associated with asystole and ventricular fibrillation. It is worth noting that even with K values ​​above and below normal, it is not possible to track a clear correlation with deviations in the electrocardiogram. This means that the ECG does not make it possible to fully assess the degree of the cardiotoxic effect of potassium.

ECG changes with increased plasma potassium

Memo to parents! The first symptoms of hyperkalemia in a child are moodiness, irritability, tearfulness, nausea and loss of appetite, the smell of acetone on the breath and decreased attention.

During medical practice characteristic symptom complexes are identified for intervals corresponding to certain values. Thus, if the K concentration exceeds 7 mmol/l, the patient’s condition requires urgent hospitalization, since it is often detected during acute emergency situations of the patient.

Initially, the manifestations do not have a clearly defined picture - it may be weakness, drowsiness, fatigue. Elderly patients mistake these symptoms for increased blood pressure and are in no hurry to seek qualified help, which is why such a conclusion is dangerous. At the next stage, the person is practically unable to move independently, and numbness is felt in the arms and legs. He is inhibited, disoriented, and there is a decreased response to external pain (prick, tingling).

Oppression is coming mental activity. At values ​​of 8 mmol/l, consciousness is impaired, cardiac activity changes - tachycardia develops and sharp fluctuations in blood pressure are noted. The heart rate can rise to 250 beats, with asystole and fibrillation observed, which can cause coma or fatal outcome. A plasma potassium level of 10 mmol/l is assessed as critical for the human body. In 85% of cases with such values, death occurs from cardiac arrest.

Diagnostic methods

Before prescribing treatment for a patient with symptoms of hyperkalemia, a comprehensive examination is carried out to find out why the increase this coefficient. Even if, for example, a biochemical blood test reveals that the indicator is too high, all the necessary diagnostic methods will still be carried out. The same applies to an ECG recording with signs of hyperkalemia.

The first step is to donate blood again, as sometimes the results can be false. This occurs when the biomaterial collection technique is incorrect (prolonged application of a tourniquet or untimely examination of a blood sample). Then the concentration of K in the urine is determined. If there are signs of diseases of the urinary system, then the values ​​can reach or even exceed 30 mmol/l.

An ECG is performed or another film is taken again to confirm suspected changes heart rate. If the K norm is significantly exceeded - more than 7 mmol/l, a rapid test is performed, which allows you to see more full picture patient's condition. It is used to estimate the amount of cations in the serum, including ionized calcium.

Additionally, the doctor may prescribe a blood test for calcitonin, a hormone thyroid gland, controlling calcium metabolism. This is sometimes necessary to make an initial diagnosis and helps to track changes in electrolytic as well as water-salt metabolism. Just passing everyone necessary examinations will ensure an accurate diagnosis and development of effective therapeutic tactics.

Treatment

The pathology indicated by an increase in plasma K can only be detected by a specialist. If the concentration of this element significantly exceeds the norm, the patient is immediately hospitalized in a hospital. When bright severe symptoms hyperkalemia, with parallel violation kidney function, the doctor may prescribe peritoneal dialysis (through the peritoneum) or hemodialysis.

When too high values and there is no time to clean the blood, phlebotomy (bloodletting) is performed to reduce the volume of circulating blood. In order to reduce the rate of metabolic reactions, anabolic drugs are additionally administered. At non-critical levels (up to 6 mmol/l) with preservation normal functioning liver and kidneys are prescribed therapy aimed at increasing diuresis.

In order to return potassium back to the cells and thereby lower its level in the plasma, injections of insulin with glucose are performed. At the same time, droppers with calcium chloride are placed, which increases blood volume. Since with hyperkalemia there is a violation water-salt balance, then it is necessary to adjust food and drink so that salt enters the body to a minimum. To do this, you should exclude foods with high content potassium

In addition, with hyperkalemia Not to a large extent You can use folk remedies to reduce the concentration of the element. These include drinking green tea and chamomile decoction, which increases diuresis and improves the excretion of potassium from the body. Even with low hyperkalemia, which allows treatment at home, monitoring potassium levels is mandatory. Otherwise, there is a danger of its growth, which can lead to the development of complications.

People often experience elevated levels of potassium in the blood; the reasons may vary. Increased potassium in the blood is called hyperkalemia. This diagnosis is made when the blood potassium level is elevated above 5.3 mmol/l. This pathology affects approximately ten percent of patients who are hospitalized in hospitals with diagnoses related to insufficiency of the system responsible for excreting urine. During recent years high potassium in the blood often appears in people who are constantly taking medications for hypertension.

Potassium plays a role in the blood of women and men important role. This is a cation that has positive charge. At the same time, sodium is a constant pair for it. The difference between potassium and sodium is that sodium is found mostly in the intercellular space, and potassium is found inside the cell. Due to this, it is created membrane potential, What allow muscle fibers shrink. In addition, sodium in combination with potassium allows for nerve impulse. In the blood of a child and an adult, the cation takes part in enzymatic activation, maintaining balance in terms of the amount of water and salts, and the formation of acid-base balance.

Studies have shown that in the body of children and adults, several natural mechanisms are responsible for transporting potassium and maintaining its norm. The main role when the indicators are brought back to normal is played by the kidneys. The adrenal hormone aldosterone acts in this case. Active substance the process is performed in such a way that an increased amount of sodium is formed in the blood. This process is connected by the renal tubules, which are characterized by reverse absorption, which affects the potassium content in the blood towards a decrease, removing it along with the urine.

If the levers responsible for regulation do not work correctly, cell membranes lose their usual excitability, which can affect the functioning of the nervous, muscular and cardiac systems, even pathological changes. Magnesium is no less important in the blood. It is understood as a microelement that is present in the blood in bound state. Most often it is an integral part of biological macromolecules. It is presented mainly inside the cell, and not in the intracellular fluid. Because of this, it is considered an intracellular ion. The normal magnesium level allows you to maintain normal cardiac activity.

The norm for women and men, when it comes to magnesium, should be in the range of 0.8-1.2 mmol/l. In this case, the indicator can be lowered or overestimated according to pathological reasons. Considering sodium, it is worth noting that it is the main ion of the liquid located outside the cell. Sodium normally in the blood of an adult should range from 123 to 140 mmol/l.

In this case, a factor in reducing the indicator in the body of a child or adult will be the removal of sodium through secretions. The body disposes of 90 percent of it in urine, the rest is divided between feces and sweat. Sodium is important for blood pressure osmotic type and blood pH levels. In addition, the work of the organismal systems already mentioned above cannot do without it.

If sodium in the blood is higher than normal, swelling may occur. Excess sodium concentrate in extracellular fluid leads to dehydration, and the presence of sodium in large quantities inside the vessels affects the volume of blood that circulates in the body, leading to an increase in blood pressure.

Reasons for increase and decrease

Returning to increased potassium in the blood, the reasons for this phenomenon can be distinguished. The exception to this is physical activity carried out with high intensity, since in this case, with an increased potassium content in the blood, there is no talk of any pathology. Speaking of any violations, increased potassium in the blood can be due to severe injuries, necrosis, hemolysis inside the cell or blood vessels. Normally, this process is performed on an ongoing basis. This is due to the completion of the life cycle of red blood cells, which “age” and are destroyed.

However, in a number of cases of an infectious, toxic, autoimmune or traumatic nature, the body begins to lose red blood cells faster, which leads to the fact that the blood test for potassium shows an increase.

Starvation, burns, disintegration of tumor parts and surgical interventions cannot be excluded from the list of reasons. The level of potassium in the blood increases against the background of shock, lack of oxygen in tissues, and metabolic acidosis. If we are talking about a patient with hyperglycemia, the norm of potassium in the blood tends to increase with insulin deficiency. In the same way, rapid protein and glycogen breakdown, increased permeability demonstrated by external cell membranes, which allows potassium to leave the cell. We cannot exclude a number renal lesions, disorders hormonal levels. In most cases, this is due to improper functioning of the adrenal glands.

The question of how to reduce potassium levels may also arise when excessive consumption preparations containing potassium. Some medications and dehydration resulting from polyuria have the same effect. Why might the rate be elevated in patients who have recently received a blood transfusion? This is possible when transfusion of old blood, in which potassium intoxication has begun to develop.

We cannot exclude such an unusual disease as familial periodic hyperkalemic paralysis. It is transmitted through an autosomal dominant pathway. This phenomenon is very rare, so you can rarely find it on the list of those that change the normal potassium level.

Generally speaking, all of the above can be divided into two groups. Potassium increases due to:

• cell breakdown;
• reduction of potassium excretion by the kidneys.

In the first case, the question of how to lower potassium arises against the background of its excessive release, in the second it plays a role renal pathology or other causes related to the urinary system.

Of course, there are many factors that reduce potassium. The indicator may be low due to a diet that excludes large amounts of this microelement and an increased need for potassium in the body, which is often observed after surgical interventions.

Mothers also face such a decrease during and after childbirth. In the same way, cranial injuries, thyroid problems, stress and shock affect. A decrease can be caused by insulin overdose, taking a number of medications, dehydration, fistulas in the stomach and intestines.

Symptoms of manifestation

Since potassium is integral part any organ and system of the human body, clinical symptoms its disadvantages are presented in large numbers, so it makes sense to list them in conjunction with manifestations from the outside different groups organs.

How severe the symptoms of hyperkalemia appear depends on how high your potassium levels rise. The higher the indicator, the more severe the symptoms you will encounter. One of these is muscle weakness. This occurs against the background of cellular depolarization and its reduced excitability. Increased quantity potassium negatively affects the heart rate. When too high level Potassium may cause paralysis of the upper respiratory muscles.

An increase in potassium to critical levels threatens cardiac arrest, most often occurring in diastole. Negative influence on the cardiac system is easily distinguishable on the ECG. The changes cause ventricular fibrillation and asystole. However, it is impossible to use a cardiogram as a correct diagnostic method.

Sometimes, when receiving their tests, a person notices that potassium, chlorine or another component is increased in the blood. In this case, it is important not to make a diagnosis yourself. Chlorine, potassium, sodium can increase against the backdrop of the most different problems, so it is important to consult a specialist. In addition, microelements such as chlorine and potassium can be considered harmful in terms of analysis. The point is that incorrect venipuncture and further processing of the sample taken lead to inflated false indicators.

Like chlorine, potassium can be reduced under the influence of certain factors. This has already been mentioned above. This will manifest itself in drowsiness and weakness, trembling of hands and increased muscle tone. Speaking about breathing and the heart, we can note a decrease in the pulse rate, an increase in the size of the heart, in which noise is recorded. At the same time, the strength of contractions also decreases, electrical processes in the heart muscle are disrupted. Dyspnea and wet wheezing are recorded.

Potassium deficiency also affects the gastrointestinal tract. We are talking about lack of appetite, flatulence, vomiting and intestinal paresis, which can sometimes lead to intestinal obstruction. We must not forget about hormonal imbalances. We are talking about glucose intolerance and malfunction of the mechanism that is responsible for normalizing renal blood pressure. speaking about the kidneys directly, an increase in potassium usually leads to copious discharge urine.

Necessary treatment

Elevated chlorine, potassium or sodium must be treated. Moreover, taking into account the fact that other diseases affect the level of microelements, treatment consists of finding the root cause and eliminating it. Therapy should consist of mineralocorticoids to combat metabolic acidosis. The patient is prescribed a diet that is low in potassium.

It is worth noting that if the potassium level exceeds 7.4 mmol/l, then this condition already poses a threat to life. In this case, the patient requires the first health care. We are talking about the immediate abolition of potassium-containing drugs. To protect the heart muscle, they are used intravenous injections 10% calcium gluconate. Loop and thiazide diuretics and cation exchange resins can play an important role in helping to remove potassium from the body.

Doctors consider hemodialysis to be the most effective of all methods. This method should be used for patients with renal failure in its acute or chronic form against the backdrop of the ineffectiveness of the measures taken.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that patients who take potassium-sparing diuretics for a long course should be aware of the threat of hyperkalemia, especially if renal problems are present. Therefore, when taking such drugs, it is important to exclude potassium from your usual diet.

Potassium, potassium, found in cells, regulates water balance in the body and normalizes heart rhythm.

Potassium affects the functioning of many cells in the body, especially nerve and muscle cells. Biological role Potassium in the human body is high. Potassium promotes mental clarity, improves oxygen supply to the brain, helps eliminate toxins, acts as an immunomodulator, helps lower blood pressure and helps treat allergies.

The potassium content in the body depends on the balance of the following processes: potassium intake from food, distribution in the body and excretion (by the kidneys, sweat glands, intestines). There is no “depot” for potassium in the body, so even a slight lack of potassium caused by insufficient potassium intake from food can provoke many disorders in the nervous and muscle tissue, weakness, decreased reflexes, hypotension, intestinal obstruction, polyuria, and water retention in the body . To avoid this, you need to include potassium-rich foods in your diet. Potassium is found in citrus fruits, all green leafy vegetables, mint, sunflower seeds, bananas, and potatoes. In addition, there are special drugs, allowing you to increase the potassium content in the body. But you can take such drugs only by following the doctor’s recommendations, having first done a biochemical blood test for quantification potassium, since even 25 g of potassium above the norm can cause toxic poisoning of the body.

Increased potassium levels in the blood:

This phenomenon is called hyperkalemia and is a sign of the following disorders in the human body:

• cell damage (hemolysis - destruction of blood cells, severe starvation, seizures, severe injuries, deep burns)
• dehydration
• acidosis
• acute renal failure (impaired renal excretion)
• adrenal insufficiency
• increased intake of potassium salts.

Typically, potassium is elevated due to taking antitumor, anti-inflammatory drugs and some other medications.

Potassium deficiency can lead to emotional stress and physical overload. Alcohol, coffee, sugar, and diuretics significantly reduce the effect of potassium. Drinking coffee can be dangerous to your health, since the fatigue you fight with coffee is actually often caused by potassium loss.

Potassium deficiency is typical for those with a sweet tooth and, conversely, for people who are addicted to diets. Weight loss may be accompanied by weakness and weakening of reflexes - and this indicates a significant lack of potassium in the blood.

It is possible to compensate for potassium deficiency with the help of proper nutrition by consuming more potassium-containing foods. Unfortunately, potassium deficiency is often associated with serious diseases in the human body.

Low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia):

• hypoglycemia
• dropsy
• intestinal fistula
• chronic fasting
• prolonged vomiting and diarrhea
• renal dysfunction, acidosis, renal failure
• excess of adrenal hormones
• cystic fibrosis
• magnesium deficiency.

Scientists believe that chemical composition The composition of fluids in the human body resembles that of prehistoric seas.

For the normal functioning of our body, the ratio of microelements in these liquids must be maintained in a certain balance - both quantitative and qualitative.

There are quite a few scientific theories, linking the emergence of certain human diseases with a deficiency of certain chemical elements. This confirms the exceptional importance of trace elements for the normal functioning of living organisms. They are the most important component in the formation of the “building material” of a living organism - protein, and also play an important role in fermentation processes, that is, metabolism is simply impossible without them.

The human body has almost everything chemical elements, found in nature. The most important of them - oxygen, nitrogen, carbon and hydrogen - are the main " building material» human body. Others are contained in the fluids of our body in much smaller quantities, but their role is no less important for ensuring normal human life. One of these substances is the microelement potassium.

The value of potassium for humans

Potassium salts are one of the most important components of the normal functioning of the human body. They take part in the work of muscles (especially the heart muscle), as well as blood vessels and capillaries. Potassium is necessary for normal operation liver, kidneys, glands internal secretion, nerve cells and fibers. In addition, potassium is an essential component of bone tissue, hair, nails, and teeth. Regulation water balance in the body, the rhythmic functioning of the heart is entirely dependent on potassium and sodium, and a violation of the ratio of these elements leads to disruption of the functions of muscle and nervous tissue - causing convulsions. The removal of fluids from the body depends on potassium salts; with their deficiency, urine retention and swelling begin, and in pathological cases– ascites (dropsy).

At the same time, potassium prevents sodium salts from accumulating in the vessels, thus preventing sclerosis. Sodium and potassium are two elements that are closely interrelated in human metabolism, constantly competing and being in a certain balance (which is why they are often sold in one preparation in pharmacies).

From the presence of sufficient potassium in nerve cells The supply of oxygen to the brain, and therefore mental clarity, depends. Potassium also plays an important role in cleansing the body of toxins and waste. In addition, it is important for vascular elasticity and regulation blood pressure, endurance of the body, and also helps treat allergies.

As already mentioned, the chemical processes in which potassium takes part are closely related to sodium. The second element that maintains the normal concentration of potassium in the body’s cells is magnesium, the main regulator of normal life. nerve fibers and hearts. If the potassium level is low, there will most likely be a lack of magnesium. In general, as we see, the importance of this microelement can hardly be overestimated.

What are the dangers of potassium deficiency?

A significant lack of potassium, or a violation of the sodium-potassium-magnesium balance, threatens our body with disruption of the functioning of nerves and muscles. Loss of adequate potassium levels can be caused by low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. That is why, in case of poisoning accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting, that is, loss of fluid (and with it potassium and sodium), the patient is first prescribed the drug rehydron, which helps restore water-electrolyte metabolism.

Frequent consumption of coffee, sweets, alcohol, as well as uncontrolled use of diuretics reduces the level of potassium in the blood and lymph.

A decrease in the level of potassium in the blood threatens a person with arrhythmia, heart failure and stroke. In addition, an indicator of potassium deficiency can be increased weakness, fatigue and decreased endurance.

With a lack of potassium, the functioning of the kidneys and adrenal glands and fluctuations in blood pressure can be disrupted. May develop inflammatory processes on mucous membranes (duodenitis, peptic ulcer stomach, cervical erosion, stomatitis), and the healing of wounds on the skin slows down.

Sometimes a sign of potassium (and calcium) deficiency is the appearance of muscle cramps and disruption of pregnancy and childbirth. Also, indirect evidence of a deficiency of this microelement are signs such as muscle pain, the presence of edema and swelling in places of bruises, insect bites, and increased formation of bruises.

How to increase your potassium content

If you notice increased swelling, bruising and swelling in areas of injury, you can use folk remedy combating edema, which increases the level of potassium in the blood and lymph. To do this, rub apple cider vinegar into the bruises, which is absorbed very well through the skin. You can also add some honey to it.

Both of these foods are considered the richest source of natural potassium. Therefore, it is useful to drink this delicious sweet and sour drink several times a day: add a teaspoon to a glass of water apple cider vinegar and honey.

In addition, there are many products (mainly plant origin), the use of which will ensure a normal level of potassium in the body. Try to have the following regularly appear on your table: potatoes, parsley, garlic, black currants, spinach, horseradish, asparagus, prunes, raisins and dried apricots, bananas, radishes, tomatoes, cabbage, grapes.

In addition, all legumes (beans, peas, lentils, beans), cereals (rye bread, buckwheat and oatmeal) and products of animal origin (liver, milk, fish, caviar).

Pharmaceutical potassium preparations

Most often, potassium is included in combination drugs vitamins with microelements that provide daily requirement human in microelements.

However, there are also preparations containing only potassium or its combination with sodium and magnesium. For symptoms of fatigue and lethargy, potassium orotate is often prescribed - this is the safest and most useful drug.

For older people with myocardial dystrophy, they are prescribed orotic acid together with potassium. A popular drug for replenishing potassium deficiency is asparkam (domestic production) and panangin (foreign). These medications contain both potassium and magnesium. They are prescribed for angina pectoris, as well as for rehabilitation therapy after a heart attack.

At acute cases potassium deficiency in the blood, take potassium acetate and potassium chloride only as prescribed by a doctor ( imported analogue – effervescent tablets Kalinor).

Potassium is one of the important microelements found in the cells of our body. There is a very small amount of it in the blood general level– only 2%. Therefore, even a slight excess of potassium in the blood can greatly affect the well-being and performance of the body. In addition to the fact that a test for potassium in the blood is a standard examination, this test is used to evaluate the effect of certain medications (diuretics), to identify and diagnose the treatment of certain chronic diseases.

Norm

In order to effectively analyze the results obtained, it is necessary to rely on certain reference values ​​accepted as the norm. For an adult, the normal level of potassium in the blood is 3.5-5.5 mmol/l. Accordingly, if this indicator is less lower limit norms, a lack of potassium in the blood is diagnosed, that is, hypokalemia; if, on the contrary, it is greater, then we are talking about an excess of potassium in the blood plasma, this is called hyperkalemia. Both types of abnormalities are important in diagnosis, but today we will talk in more detail about the increased level of potassium in the bloodstream.

Hyperkalemia, what is it?

Any condition in which the level of potassium in the blood increases above 5.6 mmol/L is hyperkalemia. It has its own symptoms and consequences, which we will talk about later, and is also classified depending on the severity into 4 groups:

• Mild hyperkalemia;
• Average;
• Heavy;
• Extremely heavy.

1. Support of water-salt, acid-base and osmotic balance.
2. Participation in muscle contraction, including cardiac muscle.
3. Activation of many enzymes.

The balance between intra- and extracellular potassium occurs with the participation of all regulatory mechanisms. In the case of normal functioning of all systems, an excess of potassium is not formed in the body, despite the fact that up to 200 mmol is supplied with food. We owe this to the work of the kidneys and adrenal hormones, which remove potassium naturally and maintain its concentration in the blood at a constant level.

Problems at any stage of this scheme can cause increased potassium in the blood, and this, in turn, causes abnormalities in the functioning of the nerves, heart and muscles.

Reasons when potassium is elevated in the blood

Firstly, potassium in large quantities can be found in the blood as a result of its release from cells into the bloodstream (hemolysis), which occurs constantly in a healthy body, but due to the occurrence of any pathological abnormalities in the body, cell destruction, and especially red blood cells, occurs on an increased scale, and therefore potassium is increased in the blood.

Secondly, potassium increases above normal due to impaired functioning of the kidneys, which are responsible for removing excess of this element from the body.

So, in fact, exceeding the norm of potassium per day in foods does not matter big role, because the kidneys quickly adapt, and the more potassium you consume, the more it is removed from the body. But despite the fact that a diet with a high content of potassium in food is rarely an independent cause of hyperkalemia, it can aggravate the condition with other more serious abnormalities.

In addition, causes of high potassium in the blood may include the following:

• Recent childbirth;
• Injuries;
• Acute renal or liver failure;
• Surgical operations;
• Forced loss of fluid from the body (vomiting, diarrhea, frequent urination, excessive sweating etc.);
• Oxygen starvation fabrics;
• Large area burns;
• Alcohol poisoning;
• Diabetes;
• Tuberculosis;
• Autoimmune diseases;
• Addison's disease;
• Amyloidosis;
• Sickle cell anemia;

In addition to the listed factors, you can highlight the use of certain medications that help increase potassium in the blood. These include indomethacin, heparin, muscle relaxants, spironolactone, etc.

Much less common reasons high potassium in the blood are innate. A disease such as familial hyperkalemic periodic paralysis is autosomal dominant. The patient periodically feels muscle weakness or an attack of immobility. This happens, for example, during active muscle activity. At the same time, it is not always possible to notice an excess of potassium in the body; it can only appear during attacks, and moments with a potassium deficiency or compliance with the norm are not uncommon.

Separately, it is worth mentioning pseudohyperkalemia. It is caused by the release of potassium from the cells into the bloodstream immediately at the time of blood sampling. This can happen if the provider does not follow the established venipuncture technique, for example, if the tourniquet is too tight or it is attached to the arm for too long. Another reason is thrombocytosis and leukocytosis, that is, potassium leaves the cells to form a blood clot. If the patient does not have Clinical signs hyperkalemia and absent obvious reasons To suggest this disease, the hypothesis of pseudohyperkalemia should be tested and the blood test repeated, possibly in a different laboratory.

Intense sports are also reasons high content potassium in the blood, but this phenomenon is temporary and soon, at rest, the potassium level stabilizes. Therefore, it is very important to properly prepare for donating blood and not exercise at least 12 hours before going to the laboratory.

Symptoms of hyperkalemia

The more obvious the deviation of potassium in the blood from the norm, the more noticeable the symptoms will be. Signs of excess potassium in the blood may include the following:

1. Deviations in the functioning of the nervous system

• Drowsiness;
• Anxiety
• Trembling and muscle weakness;
• Increased muscle tone;

1. Problems of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. (Nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory system are most susceptible to the influence of potassium, at the same time, the slightest deviations in their work can pose a threat to life, which is why increased potassium in the blood is dangerous).

• Change in heart rate;
• Heart murmurs;
• Enlargement of the heart muscle;
• Dyspnea;
• Weakening of heart beats;
• Changes in the cardiogram (sharpening of the T wave, increase P-R intervals and ORS);
• Paralysis of the respiratory muscles;

1. Gastrointestinal upset also refers to symptoms of excess potassium in the body

• Nausea, vomiting;
• Flatulence;
• Poor appetite;
• Intestinal paresis

1. Hormonal abnormalities

• Inability to maintain normal blood pressure in the kidneys;
• Glucose intolerance;

1. Kidney problems

• Excessive urination (polyuria), followed by a lack of urination (anuria).

If the analysis shows an excess of potassium in the body, but symptoms do not appear, do not rush to diagnose yourself. The test for potassium in the blood is quite “fastidious”, and in order to obtain reliable results it is necessary to impeccably prepare for the test, collect blood, store it and separate the serum, as well as timely and correctly process the sample. An error at any stage can dramatically affect the result.

Treatment

The most important thing at the first stage of diagnosis is to determine the causes of excess potassium in the blood. If, in addition to the analysis results, no signs are observed and visible reasons, pseudohyperkalemia should first be clarified, then a conclusion is drawn about the presence or absence of acute and severe chronic renal failure.

Also, when figuring out the answer to the question of what it means “increased potassium in the blood”, it is necessary to find out what medications taken could affect the analysis, and whether the deviation is associated with excess potassium intake from food.

For further diagnosis, the volume of total circulating blood and the volume of urine are measured over a certain period of time.

Before reducing potassium in the blood, the danger to the body is assessed not only by analyzing this element, but also by the results of an ECG and other clinical tests(eg aldosterone levels).

After determining the reasons for this deviation, procedures are carried out to reduce potassium in the blood; the specific method of treatment depends on the level of excess and other individual characteristics patient.

How to lower potassium in the blood

In addition to treating the underlying disease, which causes excess potassium, therapy includes mineralocorticoids, a diet with reduced content potassium

Unfortunately, excessive excess potassium in the body leads to a threat to life, and then it is necessary to quickly take effective measures to bring the situation under control. This is necessary if the potassium level exceeds 7.5 mmol/l.

1. If the patient is taking any medications that contain potassium or contribute to its accumulation, stop using them immediately or replace the drug with another one.
2. 10% calcium gluconate is administered intravenously at a low rate to prevent threats to the heart muscle. Its effect appears within a few minutes on the cardiogram and lasts for an hour. If there is no effect on the ECG, re-administer at the same dosage.
3. To direct the increased potassium from the blood plasma into the cells, insulin and glucose are administered. In the presence of diabetes mellitus only insulin is administered fast acting.
4. Another option for drugs that send potassium ions back into cells are beta-2 adrenergic agonists and sodium bicarbonate. Bicarbonate should not be used in chronic renal failure, as it may create a risk of excess sodium in the body.
5. If the kidneys have not lost their productivity and high potassium in the blood is not caused by a violation of their function, diuretics are used to quickly remove potassium from the body.
6. The most extreme and effective method– hemodialysis, used if other methods to remove potassium from the body have not worked. Hemodialysis removes excess elements (as in the case of potassium) or toxic waste products. This method is widely used for renal dysfunction.

What foods are best to avoid?

After receiving a test result that says “too much potassium in the blood,” what does this mean for you? Firstly, it is necessary to undergo further examination in medical institution, which we talked about above, and secondly, start sticking to a diet.

The record holder for potassium content is dried apricots, it contains 1717 mg per 100 grams of product! Further, according to the decrease in potassium content, the products were arranged in the following row:

• Legumes;
• Sea kale;
• Prunes;
• Raisin;
• Almond;
• Hazelnut;
• Lentils;
• Peanut;
• Pine nuts;
• Mustard;
• Potato;
• Walnuts.

In some cases, it is enough just to change the diet and the potassium level will stabilize, but in any case, the decision to take any measures should be made by the doctor, based on the patient’s medical history and tests.

If you still have questions about hyperkalemia: what it is, symptoms, its causes and treatment, leave them in the comments.