Q My friend is diagnosed with hyperkalemia. My query is what is hyperlkalemia and how to treat it ?
Hyperkalemia refers to the condition in which the concentration of the electrolyte potassium (K+) in the blood is elevated. Extreme hyperkalemia is a medical emergency due to the risk of potentially fatal abnormal heart rhythms. Normal serum potassium levels are between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L; about 98% of the bodys potassium is found inside cells, with the remainder in the extracellular fluid including the blood. Changes in your diet can help both prevent and treat high potassium levels. Limit or avoid asparagus, avocados, potatoes, tomatoes or tomato sauce, winter squash, pumpkin, and cooked spinach. Limit or avoid oranges and orange juice, nectarines, Kiwis, raisins, or other dried fruit, bananas, cantaloupe, honeydew, prunes, and nectarines. Avoid taking salt substitutes if you are asked to eat a low-salt diet. Low potassium diet and medicine prescribed by the doctor helps to manage hyperkalemia.