According to Healthline.com, hyperkalemia is a condition that occurs when potassium levels become elevated. This is a serious condition―which is often a side effect of a primary health issue―and requires immediate medical treatment; as it can lead to more serious health issues and in some cases, death. Dogs who display symptoms of any type of illness should be brought into a veterinarian for immediate medical care.
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Causes
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Canine hyperkalemia can occur for a few different reasons. For some dogs, the elevated potassium level is due to renal―or kidney―failure. This is because the kidneys are unable to filter out waste or excessive minerals and vitamins, including potassium. Some dogs develop hyperkalemia because of a urinary tract blockage, in which the body is physically unable to rid itself of waste or excess buildup. Furthermore, other dogs may develop hyperkalemia because of decreased potassium being excreted by the kidneys; whereas hormonal issues such as hypoaldosteronism and hypoadrenocorticism, can also cause canine hyperkalemia.
Symptoms
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Hyperkalemia can be considered both a health condition and a symptom itself; so it can be extremely difficult to recognize without testing. Often, the symptoms noticed by the owners or veterinarians are the symptoms of a primary health issue, such as kidney failure or urinary tract obstruction. This could mean that the dog with kidney failure is displaying issues such as increased thirst, increased urination, vomiting or diarrhea. Meanwhile, urinary obstruction could mean that the dog is simply unable to urinate.
Diagnosis
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Since hyperkalemia can be considered a symptom rather than a disease, it will likely be recognized during tests for other health issues. Often, the dog will be brought into the veterinarian for another suspected health issue such as urinary blockage or kidney failure. The dog will undergo a physical exam along with several tests including a urinalysis and blood tests. Both of these tests can help the veterinarian recognize the dog's primary health issue as well as any other issues that may be occurring, such as hyperkalemia.
Treatment
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For most dogs, treating the primary health issue will also allow the hyperkalemia to resolve itself. For example, if the dog is suffering from a urinary tract obstruction and that obstruction is resolved, the body will naturally release the excess potassium; allowing the potassium levels to return to normal. Unfortunately, in some cases, hyperkalemia can be so severe that it can lead to irregular heart rhythms. Therefore, it is always important to seek out all treatments needed for a dog to remain healthy.
Prognosis
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The prognosis for a dog suffering from hyperkalemia can vary greatly. Since hyperkalemia may be present with more serious health issues, such as kidney failure, the prognosis may not be ideal. However, if hyperkalemia is present with a more treatable condition such as a urinary tract obstruction, the prognosis may be more favorable. In short, the prognosis will always be dependent on the dog's particular case.
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