What Is High Potassium?

What is High Potassium?

Hyperkalemia or high potassium is a condition in which there is too much potassium in the blood. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the body's fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. Normal potassium levels range from 3.5 to 5.0 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

Causes

The most common cause of hyperkalemia is kidney failure. When the kidneys are unable to properly filter waste products from the blood, potassium can build up in the body. Other causes of hyperkalemia include:

- Certain medications, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors

- Addison's disease

- Diabetes

- Severe burns

- Dehydration

- Tissue damage

- Excessive intake of potassium-rich foods, such as bananas and oranges

Symptoms

In some cases, hyperkalemia may not cause any symptoms. However, severe hyperkalemia can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

- Muscle weakness

- Fatigue

- Nausea and vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Abdominal pain

- Irregular heartbeats

- Confusion

- Seizures

- Paralysis

Treatment

The treatment of hyperkalemia depends on the cause of the condition and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment may include:

- Stopping medications that are causing the hyperkalemia

- Dietary restrictions

- Intravenous fluids

- Dialysis

- Medications to lower potassium levels

Prevention

The best way to prevent hyperkalemia is to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoiding excessive intake of potassium-rich foods. It is also important to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather or when exercising. If you have any of the conditions that put you at risk for hyperkalemia, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to prevent the condition.