Hyperkalemia is a medical condition of elevated bloodstream levels of potassium. While the normal blood potassium level is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L, mild hyperkalemia can be between 5.1-6.0, moderate between 6.1-7.0, and severe above 7.0. In an extreme case, hyperkalemia can be an emergency as the condition may lead to fatal effects.

Up to 8% of hospitalized patients in the United States receive a hyperkalemia diagnosis. However, such cases are generally mild, and the underlying medical conditions are treated before the elevated potassium progresses into more severe hyperkalemia.

Symptoms

Hyperkalemia symptoms and medical signs can vary in different cases. Frequently, hyperkalemic patients can display no visible symptoms whatsoever. In the event that symptoms are detected, the following are several possibilities:

Heart palpitations
Irregular heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmia)
Malaise
Mild hyperventilation
Muscle weakness
Nausea
Pulse issues - absent, slow, or weak
Tingling sensations

Symptoms of hyperkalemia are typically not noticed until blood potassium levels are quite elevated, except in cases where the rise in the potassium levels were rapid. Continue reading more details about possible symptoms.

Causes

A selection of underlying conditions can lead to hyperkalemia in an individual. Some potential conditions and circumstances include the following:

Acute kidney failure
Addison's disease
Burns
Certain medications
Chronic kidney failure
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Glomerulonephritis
Hemolytic conditions
Impaired kidney function
Increased potassium intake with poor kidney function
Insufficient aldosterone
Kidney transplant rejection
Lupus nephritis
Obstructive uropathy
Potassium supplements
Rhabdomyolysis
Tissue trauma
Traumatic injuries
Tumors

More detailed information regarding several underlying causes is available.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Hyperkalemia diagnosis is made by a doctor or medical professional. Certain tests may be employed, such as blood tests (like blood potassium levels), and an electrocardiogram (EKG / ECG). EKG may show up items such as arrhythmia: decreased heart rate, heart block, and ventricular fibrillation.

Treatment methods vary extensively based on certain factors such as the severity of the hyperkalemia, and others. Generally, the underlying condition will also need medical treatment.

Read further for more about treatment and prevention.