Holistic Treatment for High Potassium in Dogs

Blood work revealing high potassium, or hyperkalemia, in your dog can be indicative of several health problems. Determining the cause and pursuing a holistic treatment plan can help reduce the needed medications and help improve his quality of life.

  1. Signs

    • Proper potassium levels are necessary for controlling muscles and nerves in the body. High potassium levels can cause dogs to experience heart arrhythmia. Moderately high levels of potassium can produce irregularities that can be detected by an EKG. Severely high levels can produce cardiac arrest.

    Causes

    • Determining the underlying cause of your dog's high potassium level is vital to determining a course of treatment. Hyperkalemia can result from Diabetes Mellitus, severe muscle injury or severe burns and/or infections, adrenal gland failure (Addison's) and renal failure. Typically, high potassium levels are only noted with end-stage renal failure. The most common cause of high potassium levels in dogs is Addison's Disease.

    Holistic Support

    • Very little can be done to support the kidneys once they have started to fail. A diet that is low in protein and phosphorous can be helpful in supporting dogs with renal failure; however, there are holistic options that have shown promise for adrenal failure, or Addison's Disease. Studies have shown that licorice root can normalize persistent hyperkalemia. According to Steve Marsden, DVM, Shawn Messonnier, DVM, and Cheryl Yuill, DVM, Korean ginseng, together with licorice root, is "arguably the most powerful adrenal gland stimulant in existence."

    Outlook

    • Holistic methods may reduce reliance on pharmaceuticals.

      Addison's Disease, Diabetes Mellitus and chronic renal failure have no cure. However, supporting your dog by holistic means can help reduce his reliance on medications (and possible side effects).

    Warnings

    • Before embarking on a holistic course of action for your dog, consult with your veterinarian. It is best to determine the underlying cause of your dog's high potassium levels in order to determine your choice of treatment. Be sure to discuss possible interactions between traditional medications and holistic alternatives.