16 year old with increased potasium - Kidney Disorders Message Board

sheldon5557 · 08-18-2006, 06:40 PM

My 16 year old son, an athlete, has had increased potasium levels, 6 weeks ago they were at 4.5 now at 5.4. His Creatin is 1.5 and his hemo is also elevated. They're thinking about having him do a 24 hour urine test. Any ideas on what could be causing this?

Cora1003 · 08-20-2006, 05:08 AM

Has he had elevated potassium before and why was he being checked? It seems odd to be checking these things in a 16 year old.

Sorry, but you will have to wait for the lab work and whatever other tests have been ordered. There are too many possible causes.

Cora

Mari526 · 08-20-2006, 06:27 PM

I wonder if your son becomes dehydrated which can attribute to hyperkalemia ( high potassium). Make sure he drinks lots of water, avoid high potassium foods or drinks and caffeine. Is he drinking too much Gatorade or similar hydration drinks? They are high in Potassium. Magnesium helps regulate potassium so ask your doctor if he should be taking a supplement.
I don't want to simplify his condition but, there are things he can do to assist his body in regulating potassium levels. The tests he's having will show if it's kidney related but, the previous suggestions will help nontheless.