High potassium levels in the blood can lead to death

Did you know? Hyperkalemia can lead to death.

Potassium (K+) is a condition where the level of potassium in the blood is higher than normal.
The normal range of potassium levels in the blood is between 3.5 and 5.0 mmol/L (millimol per liter) (3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L).

A potassium level higher than 5.5 mmol/L is considered to meet the definition of hyperkalemia.

Symptoms
(1) Most patients with this condition do not have symptoms.
(2) However, if the potassium level is very high, symptoms of palpitations, muscle pain, muscle weakness, or numbness may occur.
(3) In addition, if the potassium level is higher than 6-6.5 mmol/L, it can cause arrhythmias, which can lead to cardiac arrest and death.

Causes
1. Eating foods high in potassium, such as green leafy vegetables, concentrated fruit smoothies, and brightly colored fruits.
2. Some medications.
3. Kidney failure.

Treatment
1. Potassium-lowering medications.
2. Reduce foods high in potassium.
3. Hemodialysis.