Potassium is one of the most abundant nutrients found in the human body. It is critical in relation to your health because it is necessary for the growth and function of your nerves and muscles. However, too much of a good thing can also be bad. If your blood potassium level escalates to above 6.0 mEq/L, you have a condition known as hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia occurs when your potassium level is higher than normal. This condition is dangerous and requires medical attention.
Causes of Hyperkalemia
Most often, diseases that directly relate to the kidneys are the most likely to cause hyperkalemia. This connection to the kidneys is so important because the kidneys help maintain adequate potassium levels. The kidneys remove excess potassium, therefore; if your kidneys are functioning properly, you can develop elevated potassium levels. Common conditions that may result in hyperkalemia include kidney failure, Addison's disease, type 1 diabetes, glomerulonephritis, obstructive uropathy and alcoholism.
Relationship between Sodium and Potassium
Sodium and potassium have a direct correlation within your body. Typically, if your sodium levels are high, then your potassium is low and vice versa. Both sodium and potassium are electrolytes, so their relationship is important to the function of your body. You need both these nutrients, but both should be found in healthy, well-balanced amounts. If your kidneys are not functioning properly, increased intake of potassium can cause hyperkalemia. Salt substitutes often contain potassium, as do many "low-salt" packaged foods. If you have hyperkalemia, you should not use a salt substitute as part of a low-salt diet.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate has been studied to determine its effectiveness in treating hyperkalemia. In 2006, the "Texas Heart Institute Journal" published a review article that discussed the use of sodium bicarbonate as part of a treatment plan for this condition. The article concludes that sodium bicarbonate therapy has little use in the routine treatment of hyperkalemia unless severe metabolic acidosis is present.
Health Risks and Treatment
Hyperkalemia often has no symptoms. However, you may experience irregular heartbeat, nausea and slow or absent pulse. If you are experiencing symptoms, you should consult your physician immediately. Although hyperkalemia can be treated, it can also be extremely dangerous and result in serious complications. Medications that affect kidney function can put you at greater risk for developing hyperkalemia. If you feel you may be at risk for hyperkalemia, be sure to have you doctor regularly check your potassium levels. Each individual may experience hyperkalemia differently, so discuss your prognosis in depth with your doctor before deciding on a treatment option.
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