Potassium

Keshant Samaroo

Potassium
Almost 98% of potassium is found inside the cells.
Small changes in the level of potassium that is present
outside the cells can have severe effects on the heart,
nerves, and muscles
An adult needs about 1600mg to 2000mg
Potassium levels are controlled by intracellular to
extracellular exchange

Metabolism

Passive absorption in the

small intestine
90% eliminated in urine
10% eliminated in stool

Metabolism
The kidneys are the chief regulators of our body
potassium. Aldosterone stimulates elimination of
potassium by the kidneys.
When the plasma passes through the kidneys, it is
filtered by the glomerulus. Most of the sodium and
potassium passing through are reabsorbed back into the
blood.

Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia
Serum levels exceeding 5.2 mEq/L
Extremely high levels of potassium in the blood can lead
tocardiac arrest and death

Causes
Kidney failure
Addison's disease
Addisons disease
Tissue Injury
Infection
Diabetes

ACIDOSIS

Excessive intake of K

Destruction of erythrocytes

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

Treatment
Promoting the renal excretion and GI loss of potassium.
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate to remove potassium via
the digestive tract.
Water pills to remove potassium via the urinary tract.
Insulin and glucose delivered into a vein (intravenously)
to quickly move potassium into cells.
Dialysis to filter potassium from your blood, used
primarily if kidney function is seriously impaired.

Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia
Serum potassium level below 3.7 mEq/L

Causes
Chronic kidney disease
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Diarrhea(causing anal
irritation)
Excessive alcohol use
Excessive laxative use
Excessive sweating

Folic acid deficiency

Prescription water or fluid pills (diuretics) use

Primary aldosteronism

Vomiting

Some antibiotic use

Treatment
Mild hypokalemia can be treated by taking potassium
supplements by mouth. In more severe cases it may be
administered intravenously.
Patients on diuretics will need a form that keeps
potassium in the body e.g. spironolactone