High levels of potassium are known as hyperkalemia, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your body requires a certain level of potassium in order to keep the heart beating and muscles and cells functioning. Too much potassium in the blood can cause negative body reactions---including irregular heartbeat, stomach upset and slowed pulse. A number of body disorders and medications can contribute to excess potassium. Discovering the root of the problem is important to initiating treatment to improve potassium levels and resume normal body functions.
Medications
Although not all medications affect potassium levels in the same manner, medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications---such as those with ibuprofen---have been linked with hyperkalemia, according to Lab Tests Online. Medications prescribed for cardiac patients, such as beta blockers and angiotensin-convering enzyme inhibitors, also known as ACE inhibitors, have been linked with increasing potassium levels.
Kidney Disorders
The kidneys are one of the organs in the body responsible for maintaining potassium, according to Medline Plus. When potassium levels are elevated, this can be a sign that kidney function is impaired. Kidney disorders are the most common contributor to high potassium, according to the Mayo Clinic. This includes acute kidney failure and chronic kidney failure.
Addison's Disease
The body relies on the hormone aldosterone in order to help the kidneys function properly and remove potassium from the blood, according to Medline Plus. A medical condition known as Addison's disease affects the body's ability to produce this hormone. Reduced hormone production results in heightened potassium levels.
Injury
Traumatic injury to the body causes cells to release potassium. This potassium is left in the bloodstream outside the cells, according to Medline Plus. This condition is known as acidosis. Injuries that can cause acidosis include burns, internal bleeding and hemolytic---blood bursting---conditions. Post-surgery patients also may experience hyperkalemia. Tumors that grow inside the body also can affect the body's ability to regulate potassium.
Diet
Salt replacements in packaged foods can contribute to high potassium levels, according to Medline Plus. Foods labeled as "low salt" may contain high levels of potassium. Fruits and fruit juices also are high in potassium, according to Lab Tests Online. Avoiding excessive fruit and fruit juice intake, particularly if you experience reduced kidney function, can lead to elevated potassium levels.
