From the Research
Hyperkalemia can cause blurry vision due to its effects on nerve and muscle function, including the muscles controlling eye movement and focus, as well as the transmission of visual signals along the optic nerve, as noted in the context of potassium disorders 1. The condition occurs when potassium levels rise above the normal range, typically above 5.0 mEq/L, disrupting the normal electrical activity of cell membranes.
- In the visual system, this electrolyte imbalance can affect the muscles controlling eye movement and focus, as well as the transmission of visual signals along the optic nerve.
- The resulting muscle weakness and altered nerve conduction can lead to difficulty focusing, double vision, or general visual blurriness.
- Additionally, severe hyperkalemia can cause broader neurological symptoms that affect vision, including dizziness and confusion. Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause of hyperkalemia, which may include discontinuing potassium-sparing medications, treating kidney dysfunction, or using medications like calcium gluconate, insulin with glucose, or sodium polystyrene sulfonate to lower potassium levels, with patiromer being a newer option for chronic or acute hyperkalemia management 2, 3.
- If you experience blurry vision along with weakness, heart palpitations, or numbness, seek immediate medical attention as severe hyperkalemia can be life-threatening due to its potential effects on cardiac function. It's also worth noting that the management of hyperkalemia has evolved with the introduction of newer potassium binders like patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, which offer alternatives to traditional treatments like sodium polystyrene sulfonate 4, 5.