Potassium is an electrolyte involved in regulating nerve function and muscle contraction. Excess potassium in the blood, also referred to as hyperkalemia, may be caused by kidney disease, certain drugs and severe trauma. The MDGuidelines notes that the incidence of hyperkalemia ranges between 1 and 10 percent in hospitalized patients. Normal blood serum potassium levels range from 3.6 to 4.8 mEq/L, according to MayoClinic.com.
Weakness and Fatigue
Mild hyperkalemia is usually not accompanied by symptoms. A moderate elevation in the level of blood potassium, ranging between 6.1 and 7.0 mEq/L, may be accompanied by muscle weakness and fatigue, according to MDGuidelines.
Heart Palpitations
Moderate increases in potassium may cause a weak pulse and an irregular heartbeat, called palpitations.
Nausea
People with moderate to severe hyperkalemia may experience nausea.
Rapid Breathing
Elevated levels of potassium are sometimes concurrent with metabolic acidosis. The most prominent symptom of metabolic acidosis is rapid breathing, which is a compensatory action by the body to rid itself of excess acid.
Cardiac Arrest
Potassium levels above 7 mEq/L are dangerous and may result in fatal cardiac arrest; patients should receive emergency medical treatment.
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