Maintaining good health is often at the forefront of people’s minds, as it’s natural to aspire for longevity and a fulfilling life.
While many are educated on general healthy practices, there’s a lesser-known condition that has recently come into the spotlight thanks to a TikTok video by a nurse. He highlighted its potentially “deadliest complications”.
Nurse Mike took to the platform to inform users about hyperkalemia, which refers to dangerously high levels of potassium in the body. This can be especially risky if it develops rapidly, making awareness crucial when it comes to health.
In his educational video, Nurse Mike clarifies: “Hyperkalemia is just elevated potassium. Normal potassium is 3.5 to 5.0. Commonly caused by renal failure, where the kidneys fail.
“Now the most deadly complications and the most-related signs and symptoms. Number one, is neuromuscular. Increased DTRs, muscle paralysis, muscle weakness or basically just a general feeling of heaviness.”
He added: “Remember – potassium pumps the muscles, so low potassium, or even high potassium, causes malfunction in the muscles. Number two is life-threatening arrhythmias on the EKG.
“The big ones to know is V fib (ventricular fibrillation) and cardiac arrest. Remember – potassium pumps the heart, so high potassium, we have high pumps.
“Obtain an EKG, and always look for peaked T waves and even ST elevation. Always look for hypotension and bradycardia.”
The video has racked up over 2,000 views since it was uploaded, with numerous viewers adding their comments. A considerable number shared their own experiences with elevated potassium levels.
How do I know if my potassium levels are high?
A test is the way to find out. The NHS lists several reasons why your GP may suggest a potassium test. Common instances include the diagnosis or monitoring of kidney disease, which often leads to high potassium.
It’s also suggested, if you’re dealing with heart issues like hypertension, or if you’re on medication, that could affect potassium balance. If you’re diabetic, testing might be recommended due to concerns of diabetic ketoacidosis – a serious complication linked to insufficient insulin in the body.
Low potassium can indicate cardiac problems such as arrhythmias, while high potassium can diminish heart muscle function. Both extremes carry significant health risks and can be life-threatening in certain circumstances.
In rare cases, low potassium might result from inadequate nutrition. If you’re dealing with mild hyperkalemia, you might not notice any symptoms, or they could be easily overlooked.
They may appear intermittently or develop over a period of weeks or months. Such symptoms can include abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea and feelings of nausea or vomiting.
Alarmingly high potassium levels can affect your heart, leading to sudden, potentially fatal complications. Indicators of this include chest pain, heart palpitations, arrhythmia or muscle weakness or numbness in your limbs.
If you encounter any of these issues, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help.