Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium)
About Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium)
An abnormally high concentration of potassium in the blood. Potassium is an important electrolyte in the body and high levels can cause the heart and muscles to function improperly and result in death. Common causes are kidney failure and medications.Symptoms
Weakness, slow heart rate, fainting, breathing problems.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood and urine tests will be performed to measure the potassium and other electrolyte levels, to assess kidney function and to search for a cause of the disorder. An EKG will often be recommended to assess the effect of the high potassium on the heart.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG.
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy includes reversing the cause of the elevated potassium and preventing and treating complications. An initial step is to reduce potassium from the diet and medications and stopping or changing medications (such as potassium-sparing diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) that reduce potassium excretion. Treatment and monitoring depend on the severity of the condition (how high the potassium is and how quickly it rose) but may include: Kayexalate; intravenous or oral fluids; a diuretic (such as furosemide); insulin and glucose, sodium bicarbonate; and/or calcium. Dialysis may be needed for serious elevations or if associated with severe kidney failure.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Nephrology · Family Practice · Pediatric Nephrology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium).