Healthy kidneys perform several vital functions that preserve life. These
functions include regulating blood pressure, filtering waste products from the
blood, producing urine and keep normal fluid and electrolyte levels. When
kidneys malfunction, they are not able to perform these functions, causing
abnormal levels of fluid, potassium and other substances to build up in the
blood.
Potassium regulation
Each kidney contains thousands of nephrons. The nephrons are consisted of
tubules and a glomerulus. The glomerulus keeps cells and normal proteins in the
circulatory system, and filter wastes and extra fluid out of the bloodstream.
During this process, the kidneys return electrolytes life potassium and sodium
to the blood. This process regulates the amount of these minerals in the
body.
Normal Levels
The normal levels of potassium should be anywhere from 3.6~4.8
millequivalents per liter. A blood test can measure high potassium level - if a
person's level exceeds 6.0 mEq/L, then he is considered to be at a high level
and may experience adverse effects.
Symptoms of kidney unable to excrete potassium
People with kidney disorders, such as Acute Kidney Failure, Chronic Kidney
Failure, obstructive uropathy, and glomerulonephritis all can cause
hyperkalemia. A condition called Addison's disease can also lead to this
problem. Other causes include injury to the body including burns, tumors,
surgery and blood related conditions.
Once the kidneys are unable to excrete potassium, a number of symptoms, both
minor and severe, may occur. Minor symptoms include muscle fatigue, weakness and
stomach upset. In severe cases, patients will experience paralysis and
arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythms. One's pulse also may be slowed or
faint.
Since excess potassium levels can be a life-threatening condition, so
preventions are necessary including following a low potassium diet, eliminating
salt substitutes from daily diet. Or you can send your specific condition to kidney-treatment@hotmail.com
and out experts will guide you to the best treatment option.