In fact whales are able to take in much more usable oxygen than land animals and humans. One estimate states that a whale may be able to store and use up to 90% of the oxygen they inhale. Whales are also able to shut down non essential functions in order to maximize the efficiency of their oxygen usage. Depending on the whales species whales have been known to hold their breath anywhere from 5 minutes up all the way up to 90 minutes during deep dives. Due to their consistent conscious effort to control their breathing whales are referred to as conscious breathers.
Serious side effects have been reported with potassium chloride including: Hyperkalemia. Potassium chloride can lead to dangerously high levels of potassium, which could cause the heart to stop beating. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart or kidney disease. Digestive tract injury. Potassium chloride can remain in the digestive system for too long, leading to injuries in the digestive tract (stomach, intestines).
Question: What effects does spironolactone have on my blood potassium and should I be monitored while on it? Answer: Because spironolactone is commonly used in heart failure treatment, its effects on your kidneys are really important. It turns out that spironolactone causes the kidney to retain or hang on to potassium. And it can increase the blood potassium level, and in some patients actually quite significantly, and even in a few to dangerous levels. So with a new addition of spironolactone to your medical regimen, the blood potassium level should be monitored. Initially the first few days after starting it, and then every couple of weeks for probably a month or two to make sure that your blood potassium levels are okay and are not too elevated.