According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, potassium is an essential mineral that promotes cardiac and bone health, smooth muscle contraction, digestion and other essential biological functions. Potassium can also pose serious health risks if it is present in the bloodstream in too-high amounts, a condition called hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can be difficult to recognize based on symptoms alone, but there are some related signs.
Cardiac Arrhythmia
Cardiac arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, may be a sign of hyperkalemia, but this symptom may have numerous causes. According to "Handbook of Clinical Nutrition and Aging" by Connie W. Bales and Christine Seel Ritchie, this is a common cause of death related to hyperkalemia, and it can manifest suddenly and cause death soon after. The National Institutes of Health states that the pulse may also be slow, weak or absent in a hyperkalemic state. This condition also involves a serious risk of cardiac arrest.
Nausea
The National Institutes of Health and the Mayo Clinic warn that hyperkalemia may cause nausea and vomiting.
Fatigue
The Mayo Clinic and the University of Maryland Medical Center list muscle fatigue, weakness, numbness and tingling among the physical manifestations of hyperkalemia.
Paralysis
Paralysis may also be a sign of hyperkalemia, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Tissue Injury
While not technically a symptom of hyperkalemia, severe tissue injury can actually cause this condition, potentially giving ample warning to prepare for treatment. This may occur because cells in injured tissues release potassium into the bloodstream, according to the National Institutes for Health. Such types of injuries include tumors, burns, surgery, gastrointestinal bleeding and other trauma.
Related Conditions
Since the actual symptoms associated with hyperkalemia are fairly general and non-specific, this condition is usually diagnosed based on blood tests, and these blood tests are usually ordered as a precaution when other conditions may cause high potassium, according to Bales and Ritchie. Some of the medical conditions that may lead to hyperkalemia are kidney disorders, Addison's disease and type-1 diabetes. Alcoholism, drug use, the use of ACE inhibitors and high doses of potassium supplements can also contribute to hyperkalemia.
