Hyperkalemia – Raj Sarki's Journey Overcoming High Potassium
I continue to run - not just for medals, but to show that life after kidney disease is possible. Every step I take is a reminder that with the right support, care, and hope, we can all keep moving forward”
In 2021, I started experiencing headaches, which I ignored. By 2022, things worsened. What started as high blood pressure turned out to be Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). My creatinine reached 6.5 mg/dl, and despite medications, dialysis became necessary At 29 years of age, my life changed forever.
For a young footballer and athlete like me, it felt like the end of everything I had worked for.
The Silent Threat of High Potassium
One night while lying in bed, I was struck with painful cramps that locked up my body. My parents rushed me to the hospital. Blood tests revealed my potassium level was 7.5 mmol/L - dangerously high. Treatment had to be started immediately.
That was when I truly understood the danger of hyperkalemia (high potassium)
The Hidden Lesson
Even though doctors had warned me, frustration often led me to eat foods I shouldn’t. Fruits like bananas, mangoes, and even fruit juices became my guilty escape. I thought: “One more piece won’t harm me.”
But I learned the hard way that in kidney disease, healthy foods can sometimes be harmful. Excess potassium can directly affect the heart and brain.
The lesson was clear: every small choice matters.
What should I do?
· Limit high-potassium foods
· Get regular blood tests
· Ask your doctor about medicines that control potassium
Back on Track
High potassium may or may not cause noticeable signs or symptoms. That’s why regular monitoring of serum potassium levels is critical for anyone living with kidney disease.
With treatment, discipline, and renewed awareness, I got back on my feet. I became more careful with my diet, attended follow-ups regularly, and discussed new therapies with my doctors.
I also found strength in the Kidney Warriors Foundation (KWF). Their support, guidance, and patient community reminded me I was not alone. Sharing experiences and learning from others helped me stay disciplined and hopeful.
From Kidney Failure to Bronze Medal
On 28th September 2022, my sister gave me the gift of life - she donated her kidney and gave me a second chance. That gift allowed me to return to what I loved most: sports, football, and living with purpose.
In 2025, life gave me another moment of joy - I represented India at the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany, where I won the bronze medal in the 200m sprint.
That moment wasn’t just about a medal - it was proof that resilience, medical care, community support, and organ donation can create miracles.
A Message of Hope
To anyone living with kidney disease or dialysis:
· Be mindful of potassium. It may be invisible, but its effects are powerful
· Stay disciplined with diet and monitoring
· Keep in touch with your physicians: novel potassium lowering treatments and medicines can help you live better
· Lean on patient groups like KWF: you don’t have to walk this road alone.
My story is proof that with the right care, discipline, and community, even the silent threats of kidney disease can be overcome - and life can be lived with purpose.
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