Question

indicate and justify the differences in the management of hyperkalemia in an asymptomatic patient with GFR = 18mLmin and K + = 5.8meq / dL and an asymptomatic patient with GFR =21 ml/min and K + = 6.3 meq/dL

Answer 1

If the hyperkalemia is severe (potassium >7.0 mEq/L) or if the patient is symptomatic, need necessary treatment.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is the medication to lower the potassium level. Which removes potassium through intestines before it's absorbed.

normal range of GFR is 90 to 120 mL/min/1.73 m².

Dialysis is necessary in case of end stage kidney failure. That is usually by the time loss of about 85 to 90 percent of kidney function and have a GFR of <15.

Otherwise no need of dialysis. Avoid processed foods and choose fresh fruits and vegetables instead. Follow a low-salt diet. Salt should be limited especially in case of high blood pressure, protein in urine, or swelling or difficulty breathing. Eating less than 2000 mg a day of sodium is recommended.