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  • Shared Experiences

    Potassium levels

    Question: Is anyone suffering from erratic potassium levels throughout their treatment? If so, how is this being managed? Mum's levels have been up and down since the operation. Would love to know more about the whys? and the ‘to do’ to avoid this becoming a more serious problem.

    • 2 comments
    • Bowel Cancer Australia
    • Bowel Cancer Australia
  • Find a professional to answer your question

  • Bowel Cancer Australia is the leading community-funded charity dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment and care for everyone affected by bowel cancer. We … View Profile

    Hi Finni,



    Thanks very much for your post and question about potassium levels. (Thanks also Ben, for your added comments)



    Our nutritionist advisor will be in touch shortly with a response.



    In the meantime, you may be interested in having a read through the information on the Diet and Bowel Cancer page on the Bowel Cancer Australia website, including our Diet & Nutrition: Your Recipe For Recovery booklet.



    Kind Regards,



    The team at Bowel Cancer Australia



    Please Note: Bowel Cancer Australia's Nurse and Nutritionist Advisory services are subject to the following disclaimer.

  • Bowel Cancer Australia is the leading community-funded charity dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment and care for everyone affected by bowel cancer. We … View Profile

    Hi Finni,



    Potassium levels are dependant on fluid loss. The levels are more often down than up.



    If they are up it is usually due to overcompensation with supplementation, or the effects of some drugs, chemotherapy and the destruction of tumors or kidney condition.



    There are a number of supplements that may be prescribed by a GP that help regulate potassium, or self medicated electrolyte fluids.



    This can be a problem if they are not monitored therefore it is important to check with a GP to check the levels.



    For further information on Diet/Nutrition and bowel cancer please visit the Diet and Bowel Cancer page on the Bowel Cancer Australia website, in particular our Diet & Nutrition: Your Recipe For Recovery booklet, as well as the Healthier Eating and Living with Cancer booklets on the Patient Information page.



    Kind Regards,



    Teresa

    Bowel Cancer Australia Nutritionist Advisor



    Please Note: Bowel Cancer Australia's Nurse and Nutritionist Advisory services are subject to the following disclaimer.

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