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Is Low Potassium Level Associated With Pruritus?

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Posted on Wed, 14 Oct 2015
Question: How can one tell between Pruritus and low potassium level?
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Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
These two are independent entities

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

Let me tell you that pruritus and low potassium level are not something mutually exclusive. These are two entirely different entities that may be present either simultaneously or independently of each other. Pruritus means itchiness. It can occur due to build up of certain toxic substances or metabolites in the body. These can histamines, conjugated bilirubin or many other substances. It is independent of the potassium levels. Potassium is an ion that is primarily present inside the cells. But various causes of fluid electrolyte imbalances can lead to low potassium levels, especially in a person undergoing peritoneal dialysis. If this occurs when the metabolites are inadequately cleared from the body system, pruritus may result, but these conditions might just be simultaneously present. They are not directly related.

I hope you understand.

Regards
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

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Is Low Potassium Level Associated With Pruritus?

Brief Answer: These two are independent entities Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. Let me tell you that pruritus and low potassium level are not something mutually exclusive. These are two entirely different entities that may be present either simultaneously or independently of each other. Pruritus means itchiness. It can occur due to build up of certain toxic substances or metabolites in the body. These can histamines, conjugated bilirubin or many other substances. It is independent of the potassium levels. Potassium is an ion that is primarily present inside the cells. But various causes of fluid electrolyte imbalances can lead to low potassium levels, especially in a person undergoing peritoneal dialysis. If this occurs when the metabolites are inadequately cleared from the body system, pruritus may result, but these conditions might just be simultaneously present. They are not directly related. I hope you understand. Regards