Potassium near me in Visakhapatnam
The Potassium test measures the amount of potassium in the blood and is available at a pocket-friendly price in Visakhapatnam 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.
Understanding Potassium
Potassium is predominantly present inside the cells throughout the body, and the kidneys regulate its level. It performs several vital functions, such as regulating fluid levels, balancing the acid-base (pH) levels, or maintaining nerve and muscle functions. Potassium is also essential for the proper functioning of the heart. Therefore, any fluctuations in its levels can be alarming as this can cause potentially serious health concerns.
Your doctor may advise the Potassium test if you experience symptoms such as extreme fatigue, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, irregular pulse, difficulty in breathing, muscle weakness, and numbness. This test is also used as a follow-up test for those undergoing diuretic therapy or kidney dialysis. Usually, no special preparation is required for this test; eat and drink as per your daily routine.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your health and formulate your overall treatment plan.
What does Potassium measure?
The 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.