High blood potassium, or hyperkalemia, is a condition in which too much potassium is stored in your body's cells and organs. This condition usually occurs because of kidney disease, but it can also be caused by certain medications and over-use of potassium vitamin supplements. Because potassium helps regulate electrical impulses and smooth muscle tissue, not treating hyperkalemia right away can lead to severe or fatal heart complications.
Cardiac Effects
High levels of potassium interfere with electrical impulses to the heart. According to Penn State University, people with high levels of potassium can experience irregular heartbeats and faint pulse levels. In severe cases, hyperkalemia can lead to cardiac arrest, which is often fatal. Doctors use EKG machines during treatment to monitor the heart rate and detect irregularities. The heart usually recovers completely once potassium levels are brought back under control.
Kidney Effects
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, kidney disease and low blood potassium levels go hand in hand. In fact, because the kidneys help regulate fluids and electrolytes in the body, failing kidneys are one of the most common causes of hyperkalemia. If potassium levels are not brought back under control, the stress of trying to regulate irregular electrolyte and fluid levels in the body can further complicate kidney disorders.
Muscular Effects
Commonly, symptoms of high blood potassium manifest in the muscles. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it's common for people with hyperkalemia to feel muscle fatigue and weakness. Others will feel odd sensations such as tingling or numbness. In extreme cases, high potassium can cause temporary muscle paralysis.
Other Effects
Hyperkalemia manifests itself differently in everyone. For some, there are no symptoms, and for others, the effects are severe and deadly. Some additional effects of high potassium levels include chest tightness or difficulty breathing, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
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