Your body relies on minerals from the foods you eat to perform vital functions, such as keeping your heart beating and your nerves communicating with your brain. Potassium is an example of a mineral that accomplishes both these functions. This means potassium is helpful, not dangerous to your health. However, too much potassium in your body -- a condition called hyperkalemia -- can be harmful to your health. Knowing the signs and symptoms of having too much potassium can help you keep your potassium levels in check.
Potassium Needs
Potassium is the most abundant mineral inside your cells, and you need about 4,700 mg per day if you are age 14 or older, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. The mineral is found in an abundance of foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Without enough potassium in your daily diet, you may experience symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness and abdominal pain. These symptoms occur because your body is unable to complete its normal reactions without enough potassium.
Benefits
Instead of being a dangerous mineral, eating enough potassium has been linked with a number of health benefits in the body. This includes reducing your risk for stroke and heart attack, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Dietary potassium also helps prevent the formation of kidney stones because it prevents the kidneys from releasing too much calcium that can build up in your urinary tract and cause calcium kidney stones.
Excess Amounts
Potassium can be dangerous if you consume it in excess amounts, take supplements that increase potassium levels too much or have a condition that affects your ability to filter potassium. Having too much potassium in your cells is a condition known as hyperkalemia, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. If you have conditions such as acute or chronic kidney failure, your body may not be able to filter potassium as sufficiently, which can cause potassium to build up in your blood.
Symptoms
Having too much potassium in the blood can be potentially life threatening. Initial symptoms may include tingling in your hands and feet, muscle weakness and paralysis of your muscle tissue, which can include your lungs. Ultimately, excess potassium can cause imbalances in your heartbeat and lead to cardiac arrest. If you begin to experience symptoms associated with excess potassium levels, notify your physician immediately.
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