High Potassium Salt Substitute Danger
Potassium is a mineral needed by the body to function properly. It helps in fluid regulation. For healthy individuals, high potassium salt substitutes may not pose a serious health threat. If you are suffering from kidney disease or taking some medications, using potassium salt substitutes may lead to life threatening side effects.
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Table Salt Versus High Potassium Salt Substitutes
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Table salt is sodium chloride. Sodium can cause water retention is some people and may be a factor leading to high blood pressure. Many salt substitute products are composed of potassium chloride. These products deliver "salty" flavor without sodium.
Effects of High Levels of Potassium
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A high level of potassium in your body is called hyperkalemia. Common side effects of having a high level of potassium include diarrhea and nausea. Serious side effects such as muscle weakness, slowed heart rate and abnormal heart rhythm can be signs of an extremely elevated level of potassium.
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Possible Effects of High Potassium on Kidney Patients
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DaVita, a dialysis provider, recommends that people who have kidney disease not use potassium salt substitutes. High levels of potassium can lead to heart failure or sudden death in patients who have end-stage renal disease.
High Potassium Levels and Lupus Nephritis
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Lupus nephritis is damage to the kidneys from complications from lupus. Lupus is an auto-immune disease. If you suffer from lupus, your kidneys may be damaged and not be able to release potassium efficiently. Side effects from the buildup of potassium may include irregular heartbeat, slow pulse and death.
Drug Interactions from Potassium Salt Substitutes
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The University of Maryland Medical Center reports if you take NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxyn sodium, you should check with your doctor before using potassium salt substitutes. People taking ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers for certain heart conditions may experience harmful side effects from potassium salt substitutes. Some diuretics, antibiotics, insulin and blood thinners may react with a potassium salt substitute by increasing the amount of potassium in your body. Check with your doctor before using potassium salt substitutes to prevent life threatening side effects, such as heart failure and sudden death.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Lenore Edman
