Low Potassium

My rheumy's nurse called the other day and quickly told me that my labs had come back saying that my potassium is low and I'm to discontinue my diuretic (triamterene) which I've been taking for 22 years. She also prescribed a med to increase my potassium. My BUN was elevated as well. I was busy with grandkids, and nurse was in a hurry so I didn't ask just how high the potassium level was but I will this week.

I know that diuretics can cause problems with potassium levels and that the high bun is related. Has anyone here had this experience?

I was put on triamterene because of severe pms and water retention. My gyn at the time told me that water retention means that you also have excess water in your brain which can cause mood swings. It did help, and my swelling decreased. I've always retained a lot of water, even with the diuretic. Now that I've been off of it for a few days I've gained several pounds and feel so much worse, especially in the mornings. My poor hands have a tough enough time without all this extra swelling. It's not the end of the world but I want to feel better, not worse.

My stepson is a pharmacist and is going to do some research for me because there are some diuretics that don't have this side effect. RNs out there, do any of you have any advice?

Appreciate any advice.

Pat

Thanks Nola. I'll mention that one to my doc & see what she says. I don't have an appointment till mid July but I don't want to wait a month to talk to her about this.

Hi Pat,

It's been awhile since we've spoke, I hope you have been feeling well. Labs can be so deceiving as well all know, I for one hate it when the nurse calls and gives me the result of "x" test or labwork and while it all seems to make sense while I'm talking to her, when I get off the phone I seem to draw a total blank or get confused in the official terminology. I truly have no idea what a low potasium level and high BUN lab would mean, but would call to inquire further. I am baffled because from issues with my Mom and husband the two tests seem to conflict. My mother suffered from heart and lung issues, as a result her body would not hold potasium, apparently from what docs said as her heart condition worsened, her potasium levels plumited. My husband on the other only has one kidney, he has to watch that his potasium levels do not go too high, because of the one kidney his body does not flush properly, thus holding on to potaisum. Where my mom had to take a potasium supplement because of her heart issues, my husband has to ensure he does not eat potasium inriched foods and must take a diuretic to assist his body with removal of extra fluids and potasium since the one kidney can only do so much on its own.

I urge you to call and request the nurse (or another nurse if she is out) call you back because of the mixed messages the labs are showing. I'm sure everything is just fine, but I would certainly rather err on the side of caution than take a chance when you are dealing with major organs like the heart and kidneys.

Please keep us posted, I am really curious what this means. I'm sure the medical professionals know exactly what it means and have your best interest in mind!

Hugs,
Melissa

Pat -- I was on a potassium sparing diuretic until I found out I was pregnant. I was taking 5 potassium pills a day to try to stay in the normal range. It did help!

I haven't posted in a while, so I don't know that you'll remember me, but we go to the same doctor! I wonder if we've ever been there at the same time?! I go back in two weeks again as we are close to the end of my pregnancy!

Good luck and I hope you can get a new prescription!

HI Pat, I wish I had some information that would help you.  All I know is that the potassium thing is part in parcel with our electrolytes. Gotta keep them in check for your heart.  Please keep us posted on how you're doing

 

Ginny

I'm no doctor but a low potassium and elevated bun sounds like you were a tad dehydrated from your diuretic. I would highly advice you not to suddenly increase you potassium intake via your diet when your doc has prescribed potassium based on your 'normal' diet. You make get too much. AS others have said 'balance' is so important with potassium. I hope you get some answers and resolution. Judy

Heather,

How exciting! Would you believe that last night I dreamed that I was pregnant, at 60! Shopping for baby clothes, and everyone looked at me like I was crazy, but I felt wonderful. I'm so happy for you.

Yes, you're describing her exactly as I sense her to be. My PCP is so amazing and sits down and goes through my entire file everytime I go in. We go over my meds, symptoms, new symptoms, questions, etc. etc. She explains everything thoroughly and never blows me off. I never feel intimidated with her, and feel that she's there to help me. Really help me. She's compassionate and concerned. The problem is, she has spoiled me.

I told my rheumy that the top of my left foot was bothering me quite a bit. She felt around on it and said, yes it's your tendons, and then changed the subject. She often punts my questions to my PCP. I'd really lke to find another rheumy, but change is hard. She is very knowldgeable and intelligent, but I think I'll discuss all of this with my PCP. I also find her hard to understand. She's just not a good communicator.

We should meet sometime. Do you live in the City?

Pat