Potassium in Kolkata

Also known as Serum potassium test

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Potassium in Kolkata

What is Potassium in Kolkata?

The Potassium test measures the amount of potassium in the blood and is available at a pocket-friendly price in Kolkata with Tata 1mg Labs. Potassium is an important electrolyte regulated by the kidneys and is responsible for several crucial roles, including regulating body fluid levels, balancing pH levels, and sustaining nerve and muscle functions. The Potassium test is performed to evaluate your overall health. It can also be used as a follow-up test for individuals with health conditions like high blood pressure, kidney disease, heart problems, etc, and those undergoing diuretic therapy or kidney dialysis. Your doctor may recommend a Potassium if you exhibit symptoms like extreme fatigue, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, irregular pulse, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, or numbness. No special preparation is required for this test; you can eat and drink normally as per your daily routine.

What does Potassium measure?

A Potassium test measures the levels of potassium in your body. Potassium is one of the key electrolytes that helps in the functioning of the kidneys, heart, nerves, and muscles. It also balances the effect of sodium and helps keep your blood pressure normal. The body absorbs the required amount of potassium from the dietary sources and eliminates the remaining quantity through urine. Potassium level is typically maintained by the hormone aldosterone. Aldosterone acts on the nephrons present in the kidneys and activates the sodium-potassium pump that helps the body reabsorb sodium and excrete potassium. This aids in maintaining a regular and steady potassium level in the blood.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Potassium in Kolkata

Frequently Asked Questions about Potassium in Kolkata

Q. Why should I get a potassium blood test done?

You may get a potassium blood test done if you have kidney problems, high blood pressure, or heart problems. Watch for symptoms like extreme fatigue, chest pain, irregular heartbeat or pulse, difficulty in breathing, muscle weakness, and numbness which may be due to electrolyte imbalance.

Q. What is hyperkalemia and its associated symptoms?

Hyperkalemia refers to higher-than-normal blood potassium levels. Its signs and symptoms include breathing difficulty, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, weak or irregular pulse, nausea, and vomiting.

Q. What is hypokalemia and its associated symptoms?

Hypokalemia refers to lower-than-normal blood potassium levels. Its signs and symptoms include extreme tiredness, muscle weakness, numbness, heart palpitation, tingling, and constipation.

Q. What can be the causes of high potassium levels?

High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) may occur due to various conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, severe burns, excessive potassium intake, blood transfusion, metabolic acidosis, tissue injury, or infection. If your reports show high potassium levels, consult your doctor.

Q. What can be the causes of low potassium levels?

Low potassium levels (hypokalemia) may occur due to diarrhea, dehydration, or overuse of certain medicines. If your reports show low potassium levels, consult your doctor.

Q. What other tests can be prescribed by the doctor in case my reports show abnormal blood potassium levels?

Other tests that may be prescribed in case of abnormal blood potassium levels include a urine potassium test, electrolytes test, kidney function test, or electrocardiogram (ECG).

Q. How can I raise my potassium level naturally?

Some dietary modifications may help raise your potassium levels naturally. Include foods like bananas, sweet potato, tomato, watermelon, spinach, beans, low-fat milk, and yogurt in your daily diet to improve your potassium levels.

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