Different medical conditions can bring on hyperkalemia in a patient. Please bear in mind that this is not a complete list, but simply several items with brief descriptions, mentioned with basic details. That a patient does not have one of these conditions certainly does not mean that he will not have hyperkalemia, as there are other certain common and uncommon causes. Additionally, simply having one of these medical conditions does not mean that a patient will necessarily develop hyperkalemia. Below are several of these potential causes:

Lupus nephritis

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can lead to a type of kidney inflammation known as lupus nephritis. SLE is an immune system disease. Along with leading to hyperkalemia, systemic lupus erythematosus can also cause damage to nearly any body system or organ, including the nervous system, joints, skin, and many others. Those with this condition may or may not develop kidney disease symptoms. Lupus nephritis is usually diagnosed with certain tests, such as X-rays, kidney ultrasounds, kidney biopsy, urinalysis, and blood work. Some patients may need to control or reduce sodium, potassium, and/or protein intake as a treatment method. In certain cases, chemotherapy or steroid therapy are also used. Various treatments are given based upon the severity of the condition and other factors.

Potassium supplements

The intake of additional potassium through supplements can also lead to hyperkalemia. Moreover, those who already have the condition, or kidney disease, should not take potassium supplements. On the other hand, individuals with hypokalemia (an opposite condition in which potassium levels in the blood are low) might be recommended potassium supplements as a treatment for the symptoms of that condition.

Rhabdomyolysis

Caused by muscle tissue damage, rhabdomyolysis is a rapid skeletal muscle breakdown. The injury can be due to different factors, ranging from physical to others like biological and chemical causes. When the muscle is destroyed, the damaged cells release things into the patient's bloodstream, which can cause serious medical issues such as acute renal failure. Generally, treatment aims to start at treating the shock, while maintaining kidney function. Saline IV fluid administration is often used. Electrolytes may be at abnormal levels and in need of correction.