What is high potassium level?

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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.