Edema

[Margie5967]

I am CKD 3A. Last lab GFR 49. Creatine 1.4. Last lab was 12/17/19.

I was recently prescribed, potassium supplements because my levels are always low.

I’ve been on them for two months and I am

experiencing swelling in my lower limbs.

I have new labs scheduled soon. Has anyone else experienced side effects from potassium supplements?

[WYOAnne]

You need to tell your prescribing doctor about your edema. It could be caused by the potassium?@# or there could be something else going on with your kidneys or your heart.

Call now.

[Margie5967 in reply to WYOAnne]

Thank you

[RickHow]

Margie, you did not say why you were given the supplement. There are two possible reasons. That your potassium was low in your tests? Or because you had high sodium levels and slight edema. You see, potassium supplements are used to help those with water retention and/or high levels of sodium (also causing water retention and increased blood pressure). So it is quite possible the doctor prescribed the supplement to help you with water retention you already had, or high sodium. Now you notice that there is some swelling. Which would indicate the potassium treatment is not working, or has not had time yet to work. No need to panic. In all likelihood he/she will modify the quantity of the supplement (more) or just forget the approach and try low dose diuretic. He likely tried this approach to avoid the diuretic. Use of diuretics in people with CKD can cause increase of Creatinine levels. Thus a worsening of your egfr. But this is only if the diuretic is used in high doses. But again, don't be alarmed if it happens. It is caused by the medication.

[Margie5967 in reply to RickHow]

Thank you Rick.

[bezzy]

I have Odema and I drink lots of water. Walk every day for an hour. I wear support stockings prescribed by the Doctor. They help with the swelling. I'm not on any special food,but one careful with what I eat.

[bezzy]

Hi Margie I have 1 kidney which is doing brilliant. I have been taking diuretics for 45 yrs they help with water retention, make my kidney work a bit faster, and help w with my breathing. Hope this info helps.