Potassium TestingThe potassium test measures the concentration of potassium in the blood. The sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase pump regulates the homeostasis between sodium and potassium, which moves sodium out of cells in exchange for potassium, which moves into the cells. This process requires magnesium. The filtration of potassium takes place at the glomerulus of the kidneys. Aldosterone increases potassium excretion from the kidneys. Potassium in PregnancyDuring the first trimester, serum potassium levels may decrease slightly. This decrease is likely due to increased renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which can lead to increased kidney potassium excretion. This decrease slows in the second trimester and plateaus by 28 weeks, after which levels increase, reaching their peak near the end of pregnancy. Significant increases in plasma potassium and sodium concentrations occur in the first six weeks postpartum when plasma chloride concentration falls. High Potassium in PregnancyElevated potassium occurs in <1% of pregnancies. High potassium levels, >5 mmol/L, during the first half of pregnancy, are associated with, are associated with a higher risk for the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and severe preeclampsia. Most Common Causes of High Potassium in Pregnancy
Low Potassium in PregnancyHypokalemia occurs when serum potassium levels are under 3.6 mmol/L. Most Common Causes of Low Potassium in Pregnancy
Want more insights?Take the Next Step in Functional Lab Analysis for Pregnancy – MEAC Credits Available Copyright © 2024 Functional Maternity, all rights reserved. Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is intended for licensed medical professionals. It is based on current research, subject to change, and not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. This information does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Seek professional medical evaluation and treatment from a licensed provider. Use of this information is at your own risk.
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Hi There!I'm Sarah Thompson, the author of Functional Maternity, and the upcoming book Beyond Results - A practitioner's Handbook to Effective Functional Lab Analysis in Pregnancy. Lab Tests
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