Is my contact lens solution raising my potassium levels?
DEC 10, 2017
Question:
I have been diagnosed with dacryocystitis (an infection of the tear-producing structure(s) behind the nose) of my left eye with surgery planned but have elevated potassium issues. I have changed my diet and medication to address this, but I also wear contact lenses and noticed potassium chloride is listed as an ingredient in my contact lens solution. Can this ingredient raise my potassium levels?
Answer:
The amount of potassium absorbed into the body from a contact lens stored in solution is extremely small, most definitely too little to cause an elevated blood potassium level. High potassium levels are more commonly caused by medications or conditions affecting kidney function where blood potassium levels are regulated. As for a possible upcoming dacryocystorhinostomy (a procedure that helps normalize the flow of tears), elevated potassium levels don’t affect the surgery itself, but if abnormally high, they may prevent you from being cleared for anesthesia.