What does it mean if your potassium is high?

Answer by  rosieposey78 (1304)

Hyperkalemia or high potassium levels may indicate several conditions but may also be caused during the blood draw. If red blood cells break, the measurement of potassium may be erroneously high. However, it may indicate kidney failure, Addison's disease, or acidosis. It also could mean excessive potassium intake or it may result due to medication being taken by a patient.

Answer by  Amanda65 (1220)

Extremely high levels of potassium, not within the normal range, can be dangerous. This can be caused by increased potassium in your diet, consuming potassium pills, other medications, or kidney diseases. It can cause cardiac or kidney problems. Higher levels of potassium, but still within the normal range is not dangerous and in fact is good for your heart.

Answer by  iloveeating (181)

If your potassium is high, you have high levels of potassium in your blood. It is usually not dangerous, but in extreme cases, it can slow your heart rate and weaken your muscles. This happens when your body is not excreting potassium out at normal rates, and you should avoid high potassium foods.

Answer by  elynne (1153)

High levels of potassium may indicate that a person is having problems with their kidneys Very high levels of potassium can interfer with the heart and even death