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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Diarrhea A Side Effect Of High Potassium Levels?

my md looked at my lab results potassium level high 5.5. he Rx ed kionex which i have just taken. i was told that i would have diarrhea for a while. how long? i need to attend a wedding tomorrow. also is 5.5 really that high? i am diabetic and have one kidney.
Thu, 21 Aug 2014
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi..Thanks for using healthcare magic
regarding your doubt
The level of serum potassium is on the upper limit (5.5).High levels of potassium is not good since it can produce heart rhythm problems.Dont worry only with high values,yours is only upper limit of normal.Thats why your doctor prescribed kionex which is a potassium lowering agent which acts in the gut.Some patients can develop loose stools but not always.Its important to find out the cause for your raised potassium levels.Some anti-hypertensives can cause potassium abnormality.
You have to modify your diet,avoid fruits till the levels are become normal.Fruits can increase potassium levels.
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Is Diarrhea A Side Effect Of High Potassium Levels?

Hi..Thanks for using healthcare magic regarding your doubt The level of serum potassium is on the upper limit (5.5).High levels of potassium is not good since it can produce heart rhythm problems.Dont worry only with high values,yours is only upper limit of normal.Thats why your doctor prescribed kionex which is a potassium lowering agent which acts in the gut.Some patients can develop loose stools but not always.Its important to find out the cause for your raised potassium levels.Some anti-hypertensives can cause potassium abnormality. You have to modify your diet,avoid fruits till the levels are become normal.Fruits can increase potassium levels.