I'm really worried about my dad's health. He's been diabetic since 2003 and had a CABG in 2008. He's got moderate LVF dysfunction and was in and out of the hospital in 2015 and early 2016 because of pulmonary edema. He's also dealing with hypothyroidism and recently his serum creatine levels increased, so he's on a renal diet and taking a bunch of meds for diabetes, insulin, heart, and thyroid. Lately, since January 2016, he's losing weight and gets short of breath really easily, like after walking just 10-15 meters. His latest blood tests showed low potassium, so the doc gave him a tonic for that. But now he's feeling weak and says he can't taste his food right sometimes. I'm at a loss herehow can we improve his health condition?

Dr Chandra P

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 5+ Yrs

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Your father's health condition is complex, but based on the symptoms described, it seems like he may be experiencing symptoms of electrolyte imbalance, which could be contributing to his weakness and altered taste sensation. In addition to the tonic for increasing potassium, I would recommend adding a potassium supplement such as Slow-K (Potassium Chloride) to help normalize his serum potassium levels. The usual dosage is 20 mEq to 40 mEq daily, but this should be adjusted based on his specific needs and blood test results. To address his shortness of breath and symptoms of heart failure, his doctor may consider adding or adjusting medications such as Lasix (Furosemide) to help reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and improve breathing. The dosage will depend on his current medication regimen and kidney function. For his thyroid condition, ensuring that he is taking his thyroid medication regularly and having regular follow-ups with his endocrinologist is important to optimize his thyroid hormone levels. Given his history of diabetes, heart issues, and kidney problems, it's crucial for his healthcare team to closely monitor his kidney function and adjust his medications as needed to prevent further complications. Overall, it's important for your father to continue following his renal diet, taking his medications as prescribed, and attending regular follow-up appointments with his healthcare providers to manage his multiple health conditions effectively.

Answered 04/07/2025