When a disease attacks, in most cases the body announces it through symptoms that should not be ignored, especially if they are constant and go to the doctor with a health specialist.
That is why here we will talk about the causes of these signs, when they can be serious and in which cases it is best to visit the doctor.
Today we will address high potassium level (hyperkalemia)according to information from Mayo Clinic, a renowned non-profit organization specializing in health.
“Hyperkalemia” is the medical term used to describe a higher than normal level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is a chemical substance that is essential for the functioning of nerve and muscle cells, including those of the heart.
The blood potassium level is normally 3.6 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Having a blood potassium level above 6.0 mmol/L can be dangerous and usually requires immediate treatment.
Often, the report of an elevated blood potassium level does not actually indicate hyperkalemia. Instead, it may be due to the breakdown of blood cells in the blood sample during or shortly after collection. The broken cells release the potassium they contain into the sample. This mistakenly indicates an elevated level of potassium in the blood sample, even when the level of potassium in the body is actually normal. When it is suspected that this may have occurred, a blood sample is taken again.
The most common cause of having a really high level of potassium (hyperkalemia) is usually related to the kidneys, for example:
- Acute kidney failure
- Chronic kidney disease
Others causes of hyperkalemia are:
- Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency)
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
- Beta blockers
- Dehydration (when the body does not have enough water or other fluids to function as it should)
- Destruction of red blood cells due to severe injuries or burns
- Excessive use of potassium supplements
- Diabetes type 1
A high level of potassium is often found when your doctor orders blood tests to help diagnose a disorder you already have or to monitor medications you are taking. It is not usually discovered by chance.
Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your results. You may need to change a medication that is affecting your potassium level, or you may need to treat another condition that is causing the high potassium level. Treatment of high potassium level is usually aimed at the hidden cause. In some cases, you may need emergency medications or dialysis.
If you have symptoms of hyperkalemia, especially if you have kidney disease or are taking medications that increase potassium levels, call your doctor right away. Hyperkalemia is a serious disorder and could be life-threatening. It can cause the following:
- Muscular fatigue
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
- Nausea
