Low Potassium Levels and Lupus

[cudagirl]

I also posted this in the Autoimmune Forum.  I was hospitalized over the weekend with a VERY low potassium level, and other metabolic levels were also low.  Just wondering if anyone else struggles to keep their numbers up.  I take lasix for heart issues, but even without it I am still low.  My vitamin D was also very low......just wondering if it could be an autoimmune issue.

[luppygirl]

I don't know really anything about that but I hope someone comes along soon that might have an answer for you.  Sorry

[karajo]

LOW POTASSIUM:
From my research, lasix is a majr problem with that.  I would imagine the affects of the lasix could last for some time after you stop taking it.  

I wish I knew the solution.  I have a friend with this problem and sometimes has to be hospitalized with potassium intraveneously adminsitered.  

I did glance at my "lupus Book" on this subject and didn't find any info.

Kara

[cudagirl]

Thank you Kara for answering my post.  I agree with you as far as the lasix goes, I haven't been on it since I left the hospital.  My last blood test showed I was still low, but not critical like before.  I have taken lasix for a LOOOOng time, so I'm sure it will cure itself over time.  My Vit D is also very low....do you think that could be autoimmune related?

[karajo]

low vit D is definitely related to lupus.  Especially when lupus accompanies intestinal problems like IBS or chrones.

I looked up a site on the causes of low potassium.  Here's what I found.  Of coarse, use of diuretics.  Also kidney problems like renal tubular acidosis and kidney failure, magnesium deficiency, leukemia, alkalosis (?), and the use of steroids and insulin.  Does any of these apply to your situation.  I found this on web MD.

God bless, Kara

[cudagirl]

Thank you for your time looking that up.  Yes I have kidney damage called interstitial nephritis, and also kidney deficiancy from a flare about 4 years ago.  I am chonic stage 3.  Hopefully that is as far as it will go.  I have serious digestive issues also.  God is good to keep me going.  I talk to him A LOT!  So far I am still here, even after a couple of times when I wondered if I would be.  I'm sure all of us lupies have been there before.  Again thank you....and welcome as our new community leader!  

[weslibgirl]

A few years ago, I also was hospitalized due to extremely low potassium levels.  I received 12 bags of potassium over the course of my stay.  I have been taking lasix for what my cardio md says was idiopathic edema.  Since then I have been diagnosed with Lupus.  I am on a prescribed Potassium tablet morning and night plus the lasix, spironolactone and Diovan for my high BP.   Needless to say I spend a lot of time in the lav.