Renal Failure & Potassium

Do you want to know the relationship between kidney failure and potassium.The follwing content will let you know more about Potassium and kidney failure.

Renal failure results when the kidneys are inadequate in filtering metabolic wastes. Renal failure can result from low blood flow to the kidneys, problems within the kidneys or decreased outflow from the kidneys. Renal failure can occur acutely or chronically, over long periods of time. Electrolytes such as sodium, calcium, phosphate and potassium are not filtered properly in renal failure. Renal failure also affects the distribution of water in the body.

Causes of Renal Failure

Decreased blood flow to the kidneys often causes renal failure. Blood loss, low blood pressure caused by excess dilation of blood vessels, heart attacks and diseases of the heart can cause decreased blood flow to the kidneys. Medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen can alter the flow of blood through the kidneys. Extreme cases of burns or dehydration can lead to renal failure.

Symptoms of Renal Failure

Decreased urine output and swelling of the legs and ankles are major symptoms of renal failure. Swelling of the legs, or edema, is a result of too much water in the tissues. Shortness of breath, tiredness and chest pain also occur in renal failure.
The decreased urine output in renal failure means the buildup of metabolic wastes in the blood. Drowsiness, confusion, nausea and seizure are symptoms that relate to increased waste in the blood.

Elevated Potassium in Renal Failure

Potassium elevation, or hyperkalemia, is a major issue in renal failure because it can lead to cardiac arrest, a condition where your heart stops beating. Cardiac arrest occurs when potassium is very high in the blood. In renal failure, a major goal of treatment is to prevent heart complications by controlling potassium levels.

Treatment for Elevated Potassium

A variety of treatments exist for elevated potassium. Dialysis is the most effective treatment for high elevations in potassium when the kidney function is inadequate. Loop diuretics, or water pills, can be used to force out potassium in the urine but are not effective when there is inadequate blood flow to the kidneys. Glucose and insulin can be used as well. Insulin in combination with glucoses drives potassium into cells, taking potassium away from the blood stream. Kayexalate, a molecule that binds to potassium, can be used to remove excess potassium.
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Normal Potassium Levels

Normal potassium levels range from 3.7 to 5.2 mEq per liter of blood. Controlling the level of potassium is important in renal failure; the level should be checked frequently. Potassium in the blood is assessed by extracting a blood sample through a needle. Individuals in renal failure should be on a low-potassium diet and should avoid food sources high in potassium.

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