Having a high potassium level is referred to as hyperkalemia and the condition is often caused by kidney problems, but other health complications can also contribute. The average potassium range is 3.6 to 4.8 mEq/L; anything over 6.0 mEq/L is considered high. Excess potassium is dangerous and should be treated right away.
Symptoms
Many people with hyperkalemia don't experience any symptoms, but if left untreated, you could suffer from cardiac arrest. Some people do notice symptoms and when they are checked out by a doctor, hyperkalemia is discovered. It is characterized by an irregular heartbeat, nausea, weakness, paralysis and a slow or absent pulse. You may have all or just a couple of these symptoms. Elderly people are at a higher risk of hyperkalemia because the body is less efficient at getting rid of potassium with age.
Causes
Having kidney problems, such as acute or chronic kidney failure, is typically what causes excess potassium. Your kidneys are responsible for eliminating potassium that is not needed by your body, but if your kidneys are not working, this doesn't occur as it should. Alcoholism, severe burns or other types of trauma to bodily tissue, and taking potassium supplements are other causes of hyperkalemia. Addison's disease, type 1 diabetes and the use of ACE inhibitors can also result in high levels of potassium.
Treatment
An ECG can help your doctor determine if you do have hyperkalemia. Once diagnosed, your doctor will need to monitor you continuously because treatment of excess potassium can result in cardiac arrest. You may need to be hospitalized until your potassium levels return to normal. Dialysis and diuretic medications are options used to flush out extra potassium. You may be given calcium, glucose, insulin and sodium bicarbonate, all of which work to counteract the damage that could occur to your body while suffering from hyperkalemia. Once your potassium levels have come down, you may have to continue taking diuretics will likely have to limit the amount of potassium you obtain from food and supplements.
Complications
Even though you may not realize you have hyperkalemia, leaving the condition untreated could result in health issues. You may suffer from heart arrhythmias that could lead to cardiac arrest. You may also notice that you don't have as much control over your nerve and muscle function. Your doctor will monitor your potassium levels, but be sure to contact him right away if you notice any of the symptoms of hyperkalemia; this increases your chances of avoiding any complications that result from excess potassium.
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