Understanding High Potassium Levels (Hyperkalemia): Causes & Symptoms

Potassium is an electrolyte in the body that helps maintain its balance. When its blood levels are too high, problems may occur. According to Medline Plus, a high level of blood potassium (hyperkalemia) is anything above 5.2 mEq/L.

Potassium Test

• The potassium test occurs during a general test for electrolyte levels. It includes the drawing of your blood and its analysis.

Normal range

• The normal level of blood potassium is between 3.7 to 5.2 mEq/L. Anything outside of this range is considered abnormal.

Hyperkalemia

• Hyperkalemia, or high blood potassium, is when your potassium level reading is above 5.2 mEq/L.

Significance

• High potassium levels can mean several things. Medline Plus mentions that Addison's disease, a blood transfusion, crushed tissue injury and kidney failure may cause high potassium levels.

Complications

• Test to measure heart beat

  Problems associated with hyperkalemia include the weakness of muscles, tingling of extremities and temporary paralysis. Cardiac arrhythmias may also occur from high levels of potassium.