High Potassium?Help please?

Question

I had blood work done yesterday and the results came back that I have high Potassium levels. Today I am getting another test just to be sure.

The nurse yesterday took my blood out of a small needle to try to calm my fear. I am very terrified of needles. They do not hurt but still terrify me. My father is terrified of them too. He passes out when he sees one. I am similar but I have yet to passout.

Also, I have very hyperactive thyroid. I just found out last week.

Is it possible that my thyroid and my fear of needles made my potassium levels go up?

Does anyone have a way to keep me calm next time I get my blood drawn?

Answer 1

Some of the reasons why someone may have high potassium ( hyperkalemia ) are as following:

- One way your body regulates blood potassium levels is by shifting potassium into and out of cells.  When there is a breakdown or destruction of cells, the electrolyte potassium moves from inside of the cell to outside of the cell wall.  This shift of potassium outside of the cells causes hyperkalemia.

- Potassium is excreted (or "flushed out" of your system) by your kidneys. Any damage to your kidneys, when they are not working properly, may cause an increase in potassium levels leading to hyperkalemia.

- If you are diabetic, an insulin deficiency may cause hyperkalemia.

- If you are bleeding internally, you may have hyperkalemia.

- Some medications that contain potassium, or medications that preserve the amount of potassium that is excreted through your kidneys, can cause hyperkalemia. These may include Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as Lisinopril, or potassium-sparing diuretics, such as Spironolactone (e.g., Aldactone).

- Your adrenal glands are important regulators of potassium in your blood.  Endocrine or hormonal problems (such as Adrenal insufficiency) can cause hyperkalemia.

- Salt substitutes (containing potassium) or excessive intake of potassium can lead to hyperkalemia.

For now I can only relate your hyperactive thyroid to be causing excessive or high amount of Potassium in your body.

In the case of You being terrified from needles, the best thing to do is close your eyes, relax your muscles and think of something very pleasant that always usually makes You fancy.

Wishing You Good Health !

Answer 2

Yes, Hyperkalemia (high potassium) can be caused by anxiety.  Your physician should be able to look at the values, and rule out or in this cause.  To relax you can try some breathing techniques, or relaxation exercises.  Best to not ever look if it does not hurt you, then tell whoever is doing the draw, and make sure you never see it.