Side effect of high K+ (potassium) can be serious. Potassium imbalance occurs from kidney disease, excessive use of potassium supplements, adrenal gland disorders, obstruction of urine flow from structural problems or urinary calculi, lupus, rhabdomyolysis (destruction of muscle fiber) or transplant rejection. The term for high K+ levels is the bloodstream is hyperkalemia. The kidneys control potassium excretion. Kidney disease is the most common reason for high K+ levels.
Irregular Heart Beat
One of the most important and most serious side effects of high K+ is irregular heart rate. Slightly elevated serum potassium levels are unlikely to cause symptoms. As potassium levels rise, electrical signals in the heart that rely on potassium balance become disrupted. The heart can become "irritable." Hyperkalemia causes symptoms when potassium levels become very high. Elevated potassium levels can lead to cardiac standstill and death. The shift of potassium between cells causes of electrical disruptions in the signal of the heart. Heart abnormalities related to hyperkalemia can be diagnosed with an electrocardiogram, and include a widened PR interval, a widened QRS complex and peaked "T" waves. Heart rate might be slow.
Muscle Weakness
Muscle weakness is a side effect of high K+, and is associated with serum concentrations greater than 7.0mg/dl. When potassium levels are too high electrical signals in the muscles can lead to muscle weakness. In addition to regulating the heart muscle, potassium also regulates the action of fibers in skeletal and smooth muscles. It may be difficult to perform activities, and weakness of the muscles might be described as feeling limp, and also known as flaccid paralysis. Numbness and tingling can also accompany muscle weakness. Muscle cramping can also occur.
Respiratory Failure
High potassium levels can cause respiratory failure. Breathing can become difficult in the presence of muscle weakness. Paralysis of the diaphragm is possible. Respiratory failure that is a side effect of high K+ is usually the result of a combination of other diseases that include kidney dysfunction, respiratory disease such as COPD, and high blood pressure. Hyperkalemia upsets the acid/base balance in the body. The lungs are the primary defense for restoring the acid/base balance, so rapid deep breathing is seen when potassium levels are too high.
Gastrointestinal
Nausea, diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset are side effects of high K+. Side effect of high K+ may not occur until potassium levels are extremely high, especially if levels in the bloodstream increase gradually. Sudden increases are more dangerous and can be life-threatening.
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