WHAT IS HIGH POTASSIUM?
IT’S A HIGH LEVEL OF POTASSIUM IN YOUR BLOOD
Potassium is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a key role in how your body works. Among its many functions, potassium helps keep your heartbeat regular and your muscles working properly.
IT’S NOT JUST A DESCRIPTION—IT’S A REAL CONDITION
The condition high potassium is also known as hyperkalemia. High potassium is simply what it sounds like: the amount of potassium in your blood is higher than it should be. This is generally considered to be a level above 5.0 milliequivalents per liter of your blood, or mEq/L. Your doctor can measure your potassium level with a blood test.
Excess potassium is normally removed by the kidneys. But if your kidneys are not working properly, they may not be able to keep your potassium at a healthy level.
IT CAN BE SERIOUS
High potassium can make you more likely to develop serious health issues. These could include an irregular heartbeat, heart attack, or temporary paralysis. In some cases, high potassium can even lead to death.
IRREGULAR HEARTBEAT
HEART ATTACK
TEMPORARY PARALYSIS