Potassium is a mineral that is essential in bodily functioning. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is a mineral that is involved in the functioning of cells, tissues and organs; it is also an electrolyte that conducts electricity. It plays a role in heart function and muscle contraction. Normal potassium levels range from approximately 3.6 to 4.8 mEq/L, says the Mayo Clinic. Having too much or too little potassium in the body can lead to dangerous complications.
Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia, another term for high potassium levels, describes high potassium levels. A level above 4.8 mEq/L is considered high, and anything higher than 6.0 mEq/L needs to be treated by a health care professional immediately, says the Mayo Clinic. This condition may be asymptomatic, and not everyone will display all possible symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists symptoms of hyperkalemia as including fatigue, weakness, irregular heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, paralysis and trouble breathing. Causes of hyperkalemia include kidney disease, a diet very high in potassium, Addison's disease, trauma, excess acid in the blood and some medications, says the University of Maryland.
Hypokalemia
Potassium levels lower than 3.5 mEq/L are classified as being hypokalemic, says the Penn State College of Medicine. The Mayo Clinic adds that levels lower than 2.5 mEq/L can be lethal and need immediate medical attention. Symptoms of hypokalemia can include irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness or cramping, thirst, frequent urination, confusion, lung paralysis, constipation, fatigue and heart attack, according to the Penn State College of Medicine and the Mayo Clinic. The condition is typically caused by potassium loss through urination or the digestive tract, and can be caused by eating disorders, excessive laxative or diuretic use, vomiting, diarrhea and chronic kidney failure, states the Mayo Clinic.
Treatments
Both high and low potassium levels can lead to illness and even death, making prompt and accurate treatment important. Hyperkalemia can be treated by medications that help stabilize heart function and help the body excrete the excess potassium, as well as hemodialysis, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hypokalemia is usually treated by adding potassium-rich foods to the diet, drinking electrolyte replacement drinks or taking a potassium supplement, according to the Penn State College of Medicine. In severe cases of low potassium levels, intravenous potassium administration may be necessary.
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