Too much potassium causes a condition known as hyperkalemia, which can result in serious side effects. Normally, blood potassium levels are between 3.6 to 4.8 milliequivalents per liter. Levels that exceed 6.0 milliequivalents per liter require immediate medical attention. To avoid potassium toxicity, obtain all your daily intake from food sources and avoid supplements that contain megadoses that far exceed the daily value.
Mild Symptoms
Because potassium is eliminated by the kidneys, excessive amounts may accumulate in the bloodstream in persons with kidney disorders. Acute and chronic kidney failure are the most common causes of hyperkalemia, and patients with these conditions must be especially careful to regulate their potassium intake. When the kidneys stop excreting potassium in urine, the amount of potassium in the bloodstream becomes more concentrated. This might cause more mild symptoms, like tingling of the feet and muscle weakness.
Serious Symptoms
If potassium levels continue to rise, serious side effects can occur. You might have difficulty breathing, and some patients experience temporary paralysis. In severe cases, hyperkalemia interferes with heart functioning, causing irregular heartbeat and slowing of the heart. Without medical intervention, hyperkalemia can be fatal since it causes the heart to stop beating. Lethal injections often contain potassium due to its effects on heart function.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Sometimes hyperkalemia does not manifest any symptoms and is discovered by means of blood testing. If you experience symptoms of hyperkalemia on a regular basis, consult your doctor to discuss blood testing. Your doctor will try to determine the reason for your hyperkalemia. In addition to dietary supplements, hyperkalemia may be caused by an underlying condition or certain medications. If levels are very high, you might need to be admitted to the hospital to receive treatment. Moderate excess can often be treated with medication, although dialysis may be required if medications do not lower potassium levels.
Common Side Effects
Potassium supplements may also cause side effects, even if potassium blood levels are normal. Gastrointestinal problems like nausea, diarrhea and vomiting are the most common side effects. To avoid side effects, always take potassium supplements with food and only in the dosage recommended by your doctor. Do not take potassium supplements unless they have been suggested by your physician, and always inform your doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions you have, or any medications you take regularly.
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