What is high potassium level?

High Potassium Level

What is hyperkalemia?

Hyperkalemia (say "hy-per-kay-LEE-mee-uh") is a high level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is both an electrolyte and a mineral. It helps keep the right mix of fluids in your body. It also helps keep your heart beating normally and your nerves and muscles working as they should.

What are the symptoms of hyperkalemia?

Symptoms vary. You may have a heartbeat that is too slow or too fast or that feels like fluttering. You may have nausea, muscle aches, or weakness. You may have no symptoms at all. In severe cases, your heart may stop due to cardiac arrest.

How is hyperkalemia diagnosed?

To diagnose hyperkalemia, your doctor will examine you and ask about your health. You will have a blood test. If your heart might be affected, your doctor may give you an electrocardiogram (EKG) test to check for problems with your heart.

How is hyperkalemia treated?

If your hyperkalemia is caused by a kidney problem, that condition will be treated. Your doctor may have you eat foods with less potassium and not use a salt substitute containing potassium. Your medicines may be changed to ones that don't raise your potassium levels. You may get medicine to lower these levels.

How can you care for yourself when you have hyperkalemia?

  • Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Stop taking certain medicines if your doctor asks you to. They may be causing your high potassium levels. If you have concerns about stopping medicine, talk with your doctor.
  • If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink. If the doctor says it's okay, drink plenty of fluids.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise until your doctor tells you it is okay.
  • Be aware of potassium in your diet. Potassium is in many foods, including vegetables, fruits, and milk products.
    • Foods high in potassium include bananas, cantaloupe, broccoli, milk, potatoes, and tomatoes.
    • Low-potassium foods include blueberries, raspberries, cucumber, white or brown rice, pasta, and noodles.
  • Do not use a salt substitute without talking to your doctor first. Most of these are very high in potassium.
  • Be sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicines you take. Some of these can raise potassium.

Hyperkalemia: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).
  • You have an unusual heartbeat. Your heart may beat fast or skip beats.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have muscle aches.
  • You feel very weak.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You do not get better as expected.

©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated

The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.