Potassium is a mineral that is essential for your body to function properly. Potassium gluconate is an available supplemental form of potassium for people who are deficient. Lithotripsy is a medical procedure that uses shock waves to break up kidney stones. If you are taking a potassium gluconate supplement, it is important that you inform your physician, especially if you have any kidney issues.
Identification
Your body requires a balance of potassium to function properly. Your kidneys help to maintain that balance by excreting excess potassium through the urine. If your kidneys are not functioning properly, your body can have an overabundance of potassium, which can cause problems. Your kidneys also help to make sure you have enough potassium by retaining some of the mineral. Any problems or diseases with your kidneys may affect your potassium levels in your body. If you think you have a potassium deficiency, talk to your doctor to get your levels checked.
Potassium Gluconate
If you have hypokalemia, your physician will prescribe potassium gluconate. Hypokalemia, or low levels of potassium, can cause abnormal heart rate, muscle damage, weakness, muscle spasm, fatigue, constipation or paralysis. Certain diseases or medications can cause hypokalemia, including diseases of the kidney. Diarrhea, vomiting or sweating can cause acute hypokalemia when electrolyte levels become unbalanced. Potassium gluconate is an oral supplement that is used to treat mild deficiencies of potassium.
Lithotripsy
Kidney stones are small pebble-like substances that form in your kidneys. Kidney stones can cause painful symptoms if they are too large. Lithotripsy is a nonsurgical procedure that helps to break large kidney stones into smaller stones so that they can pass safely through your urine. Although lithotripsy does not involve surgery, you may be administered anesthesia and might have to remain in the hospital for a day or two. However, lithotripsy may be performed on an outpatient basis as well.
Lithotripsy and Potassium Gluconate
Consult your physician about taking potassium gluconate following lithotripsy. There are no special diets required after lithotripsy so you should be able to continue to take your supplements. Potassium, according to Linus Pauling Institute, may lower your risk for developing more kidney stones. Following lithotripsy, drink plenty of water. Water helps to flush out small and broken kidney stones. Continue to follow up with your physician for the treatment of kidney stones and to get your potassium levels checked periodically.
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