Hyperkalemia is the medical term for high levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium is one of the electrolytes your body uses to maintain the normal functions of its chemical and electrical processes. Potassium is found in the body's cells. Your body regulates potassium levels through several mechanisms. High levels of potassium in the bloodstream may reflect the release of too much potassium from the cells. Certain medical conditions, treatments and medications can cause high blood levels of potassium.
Potassium
Potassium is an essential electrolyte and a mineral used in many of the body's biological functions. Electrolytes, such as potassium, work with other substances to conduct electricity in the body. Potassium helps the body maintain the normal functions of the heart and nervous system. Your body also uses potassium to maintain normal muscle function and is critical to healthy metabolism and digestion. Potassium deficiency is called hypokalemia. Dietary sources of potassium include meats, some fish, legumes, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.
Normal Levels
The normal blood level of potassium for adults is 3.5 to 5.3 mEq/L, according to the National Institutes of Health. The body regulates potassium levels by shifting the mineral in and out of cells. The kidney helps with regulation of levels by flushing excess potassium from the body. Your body needs sufficient amounts of sodium and magnesium to help regulate potassium levels.
Causes of High Levels
The breakdown of cells forces potassium to leave the cells and move to the outside walls of cells or to the bloodstream, where potassium can build to dangerous levels. Causes of cell destruction include damaged kidneys, poorly functioning adrenal glands, insulin deficiency in diabetics, chemotherapy drugs and internal bleeding. Addison's disease can cause a deficiency in the hormone aldosterone, which the kidneys use to limit potassium and sodium levels. Medications, such ACE inhibitors and potassium-sparing diuretics, which contain potassium or that affect the amount of potassium excreted by the kidneys can cause high potassium levels. Other hyperkalemia causes are the use of salt substitutes that contain potassium and high intake of potassium, such as with potassium supplements.
Symptoms and Treatment
Many people do not experience symptoms of high potassium levels. Some people may have nausea, irregular heartbeat, or weak pulse. Serious hyperkalemia can cause cardiac arrest and poor neuromuscular control. Immediate medical attention is needed for symptoms of hyperkalemia, especially for breathing problems, unconsciousness, weakness and weak or absent heartbeat. Emergency treatment might include dialysis and medication. Long-term treatment might be required to treat the causes of hyperkalemia.
Tips and Warnings
Hyperkalemia is a serious medical condition that requires medical attention. Diagnostic tests, such as blood tests and electrocardiographs, are often necessary to determine and assess your condition. Contact your doctor if you suspect that you have elevated potassium levels or if you detect the symptoms of hyperkalemia. You might require monitoring of your potassium levels if you are at risk for hyperkalemia.
