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Can High Potassium Levels Prevent Heart Attacks?
I have been taking 50mg a day of hydrochlorothyazide, but my doctor never monitored my potassium levels. Two weeks ago, After months of feeling lower and lower I suffered a heart Attack. I was told my potassium levels were extremely low and given potassium IV and orally, but no recommendation for supplementation or any nitro if I have more chest pain. Is it likely that the damage is permanent? Or might increasing potassium levels boost me and help Correct what was damaged?
Thu, 23 Jun 2016
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
No, high potassium level can nothing prevent heart attacks.
Potassium is actually considered as double edged sword. Low potassium (hypokalemia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia), both can damage heart and cause heart attack.
Your hypokalemia is mostly due to diuresis by hydrochlorthiazide. So doctors given you potassium intravenous and oral also.
This does not mean that you should regularly take potassium supplements because this will cause hyperkalemia and thus can also damage heart.
Heart damage done by this potassium imbalance is permanent. So you should be very careful and regularly monitor your potassium levels.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
I can understand your concern.
No, high potassium level can nothing prevent heart attacks.
Potassium is actually considered as double edged sword. Low potassium (hypokalemia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia), both can damage heart and cause heart attack.
Your hypokalemia is mostly due to diuresis by hydrochlorthiazide. So doctors given you potassium intravenous and oral also.
This does not mean that you should regularly take potassium supplements because this will cause hyperkalemia and thus can also damage heart.
Heart damage done by this potassium imbalance is permanent. So you should be very careful and regularly monitor your potassium levels.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
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