Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is too much potassium in the blood. This most often occurs in people who take certain medicines or who have kidney disease.

This condition often has no symptoms until levels of potassium become dangerously high. If symptoms do occur, they include muscle weakness and changes in the heartbeat. A blood test is done to diagnose the problem. An ECG (electrocardiogram) may also be done to quickly look at the way the heart is beating.

If hyperkalemia is caused by a medicine, the healthcare provider may lower the dose or switch to a different medicine. A low-potassium diet may also be prescribed. You may be prescribed a medicine that decreases potassium until your levels are normal.

Home care

Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all of the medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, supplements, herbs, and illegal drugs. Follow your healthcare provider's advice about making changes to your medicines.
If a low-potassium diet has been prescribed, follow this closely. If you need help, ask to be referred to a dietitian for advice on how to follow this diet. Take any medicines prescribed.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider. You may need a repeat blood test within the next 7 days. Schedule this as advised.

When to get medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:

Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Urinating only in small amounts or not urinating
Symptoms don't go away or get worse

Call 911

Call 911 if any of the following occur:

Fast or irregular heartbeat
Fainting, dizziness, or lightheadedness
Severe shortness of breath
Chest, arm, shoulder, neck or upper back pain
Trouble controlling your muscles or muscle weakness

Online Medical Reviewer: Eric Perez MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Ronald Karlin MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN

Date Last Reviewed: 12/1/2022