Potassium is one of the electrolytes needed to regulate heartbeat, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions. It is also involved in maintaining fluid and acid-base balance.1 When kidney function is compromised, potassium can rise to dangerous levels (hyperkalemia), causing nausea, weakness, and a slow pulse.
Dialysis removes potassium from the blood—but having too little potassium (hypokalemia) can cause muscle weakness, cramping, and fatigue.1
References:
1. Lewis, JL. Overview of Potassium’s Role in the Body. Merck Manuals website. https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/hormonal-and-metabolic-disorders/electrolyte-balance/overview-of-potassium-s-role-in-the-body. Accessed May 14, 2018.
2. Cano N, et al. Clin Nutr. 2006;25(2):295-310.
3. Fouque D, et al. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2007;22(suppl 2):ii45-ii87.
4. Higdon, J. Potassium. Linus Pauling Institute website. http://lpi.oregon-state.edu/mic/minerals/potassium. Accessed May 14, 2018.
5. Potassium and Your CKD Diet. National Kidney Foundation website. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/potassium. Accessed May 14, 2018.