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What do I Need to Know About my Potassium Levels?

Amy Hunter
Amy Hunter

Potassium levels are important for a variety of reasons. Potassium is both an electrolyte and a mineral, and it helps to regulate the mineral-water balance in the body as well as the function of nerves and muscles. Potassium is closely related to sodium levels. When sodium levels within the body rise, potassium drops. When sodium levels drop, potassium increases.

Aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal gland, also affects the level of potassium in the body. Another factor that can contribute to fluctuating levels of potassium is kidney disease. Certain kidney conditions can compromise the kidneys' ability to regulate potassium. Finally, illnesses that lead to extreme vomiting or diarrhea, such as the flu or food poisoning, can cause your potassium levels to change.

Bananas are a good source of potassium.
Bananas are a good source of potassium.

The signs of too much or not enough potassium in the body are similar. Abnormal levels of potassium may lead to muscle weakness and cramps, frequent urination, dehydration, a drop in blood pressure, confusion and problems with the rhythm of your heart. Low levels of potassium are more common than high levels.

Your family physician can check potassium levels through a simple blood test. While the chance of side effects from the blood test is small, some people experience bruising at the testing site or phlebitis. Phlebitis is a condition where the vein that was used to draw blood swells after the procedure. Phlebitis can be uncomfortable, but is easily treated with warm compresses.

White beans, which are a good source of potassium.
White beans, which are a good source of potassium.

If you take any blood thinning drugs, such as warfarin, aspirin or blood pressure medicine, it is important to mention this to the person administering the blood test. These drugs increase the amount of time that it takes for your blood to clot after a blood test. Depending on the reason for the medications, your doctor may recommend that you discontinue their use for several days before the procedure.

Abnormal levels of potassium may cause a drop in blood pressure.
Abnormal levels of potassium may cause a drop in blood pressure.

Some drugs may have an effect on the outcome of your test. To get an accurate assessment of your potassium levels, tell the person completing your labwork if you are taking potassium supplements, antibiotics, heparin, insulin, glucose or steroids. Medications for high blood pressure and heart disease can also affect the outcome of this blood test. Finally, if you regularly take over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) or laxatives, it is important to make sure this it is noted with your blood test.

Cramps can be caused by abnormal potassium levels.
Cramps can be caused by abnormal potassium levels.

Low or high potassium can be a sign of a serious health condition or of a passing medical concern. Regardless of the reason for fluctuating potassium levels, they can do permanent damage to the heart. If you believe that your levels are not in the proper range, a visit to your family physician is required. The blood test that detects problems with potassium is readily available, and results are typically available the following day.

Discussion Comments

Certlerant

Some medications for treatment of heart conditions and high blood pressure affect the potassium levels in your body, resulting in cramping.

Patients on these kinds of medications may be required to have their potassium levels checked more often and dosages adjusted to achieve a proper balance.

Since too much or too little potassium in our bodies can be dangerous, consult with a doctor before taking any action to alleviate symptoms.

If the doctor says it is OK, eating bananas or other foods high in potassium or taking potassium supplements may alleviate cramping and other problems.

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    • Bananas are a good source of potassium.
      By: Nikolai Sorokin
      Bananas are a good source of potassium.
    • White beans, which are a good source of potassium.
      By: Schlierner
      White beans, which are a good source of potassium.
    • Abnormal levels of potassium may cause a drop in blood pressure.
      By: delux
      Abnormal levels of potassium may cause a drop in blood pressure.
    • Cramps can be caused by abnormal potassium levels.
      By: Johan Larson
      Cramps can be caused by abnormal potassium levels.
    • A potassium deficiency could lead to muscle cramps.
      By: Petro Feketa
      A potassium deficiency could lead to muscle cramps.
    • People with low levels of potassium should eat kiwis and other foods that are rich in this essential mineral.
      By: monticellllo
      People with low levels of potassium should eat kiwis and other foods that are rich in this essential mineral.