About this topic
A high level of potassium in the blood is hyperkalemia. Potassium is an important mineral that your body needs to work properly. It helps your body to: ‚
- Keep blood pressure normal
- Keep muscles, like the heart, working the right way
- Stop too much calcium from being lost through your urine
- Control the normal flow of nutrients between body fluids and cells
What are the causes?
Your kidneys normally get rid of extra potassium. If they are not working well enough, or get hurt, you could have too much potassium build up in your blood. Some health problems, or their treatment, can cause problems with your potassium level. These include: ‚
- Kidney failure
- Certain drugs or supplements
- Diabetes and Addisons disease
- Tumors
- Burns over large areas of the body or body trauma
- Disorders that cause blood cell damage or fluid loss
- Bleeding in the stomach
- Damage to muscle
- Alcoholism and drug abuse
- Infection
What are the main signs?
You may or may not have signs that your blood potassium is high. If you do have signs, they may include: ‚
- Muscle weakness
- Heartbeat that is not normal. It may be too slow or too fast. Your heart may have an irregular beat.
- Fainting
- Upset stomach
- Feeling too tired
- Tingling sensations
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- Your doctor will do an exam and listen to your heartbeat.
- Your doctor may order:
- Blood tests
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will decide the best way to treat your high potassium levels. Mild cases can often be treated without a stay in the hospital. More serious problems may need closer watching. You may need more testing or emergency care. Your doctor will work to treat any hidden cause. You may need to take drugs to lower your potassium. You may need dialysis to help get rid of the extra potassium in your blood. ‚
Are there other health problems to treat?
Your doctor may work to treat any hidden cause of high potassium. The doctor may want to check your potassium more often. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Lower the amount of potassium in your blood
What changes to diet are needed?
Talk to your doctor or dietitian about your personal diet plan. Ask if you need to limit certain foods high in potassium. Some of these foods include: ‚
- Bananas and fruits
- Nuts, like almonds and peanuts
- Broccoli
- Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Avocados
- Milk
- Sports drinks
- Green, leafy vegetables
What problems could happen?
- Changes in nerve and muscle control
- Life-threatening heart rhythm changes
When do I need to call the doctor?
Activate the emergency medical system right away if you have signs of a heart attack. Call 911 in the United States or Canada. The sooner treatment begins, the better your chances for recovery. Call for emergency help right away if you have: ‚
- Signs of heart attack:
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Feeling dizzy
Call your doctor if you have: ‚
- A fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness, confusion, or fainting
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling in your arms or legs
Where can I learn more?
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/dictionary/h/az-hyperkalemia.html ‚
National Organization for Rare Disorders ‚
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/750/viewAbstract ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚