K and spiro

[girl you look fierce]

low...

[Jamie D]

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic.  That means it selectively does NOT eliminate potassium from the body (as it does with, for instance, sodium).  The worry would be your K levels would become too high.  If they are too low, you can always supplement your diet with potassium-rich foods.  I like watermelon and banana.

[Jamie D]

I get mine tested every three months, but I am not on spiro.  I am on another potassium-sparing medication called lisinopril.

But you are in the normal range.

It is high potassium that can indicate kidney disease and can cause heart problems.

Low potassium (hypokalemia) is more common than you think, especially in athletes.  It can cause muscle cramps, and if very low, heart arrhythmias.  If you are getting these, drink some Gatorade.