Potassium

High levels typically mean it could be a sign of kidney disease, post trauma conditions like burns, Addison’s disease etc.

Low levels could just be dietary deficiency, alcoholism, dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhea or medication like diuretics and a hormonal disorder called Aldosteronism that causes high blood pressure.

3.5 - 5.1 mmol/L

High levels of potassium is called as hyperkalemia and is marked by symptoms like:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Paralysis in the arms and legs
• Nausea resulting from fluid balance being affected
• Irregularity in heart rhythms

Low levels of potassium is called as hypokalemia and is marked by symptoms like:

• Irregularity in heart rhythms
• Muscle cramps, weakness and fatigue
• Twitches
• Nausea and constipation

Potassium is usually ordered as part of the metabolic panel or electrolyte panel. Sometimes a potassium urine test may also be ordered.

The potassium test is also used to monitor conditions that affect potassium levels – examples include kidney disease, high blood pressure and heart conditions.

The Potassium serum test measures the amount of potassium in the blood.

Other names: Potassium test

Like Magnesium, potassium is a mineral that is found all throughout the body and plays a role in nerve function, acid base balance, maintain correct fluid levels and also help in muscle activity.