Test Overview A potassium test checks how much potassium is in the blood. Potassium is both an electrolyte
Potassium levels often change with sodium levels. When sodium levels go up, potassium levels go down, and when sodium levels go down, potassium levels go up. Potassium levels are also affected by a hormone called aldosterone, which is made by the adrenal glands
Potassium levels can be affected by how the kidneys pH hormone diuretics
A potassium level that is too high or too low can be serious. Abnormal potassium levels may cause symptoms such as muscle cramps or weakness, nausea, diarrhea, frequent urination, dehydration
Other electrolytes, such as sodium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, and phosphate, may be checked in a blood sample at the same time as a blood test for potassium.
Why It Is Done
A blood test to check potassium
Check levels in people being treated with medicines such as diuretics and for people having kidney dialysis Check to see whether treatment for too low or too high potassium levels is working. Check people with high blood pressure who may have a problem with their kidneys or adrenal glands. Check the effects of extra nutrition (total parenteral nutrition [TPN] Check to see whether certain cancer treatments are causing too many cells to be destroyed (cell lysis). Cell lysis syndrome causes very high levels of some electrolytes, including potassium. How To Prepare
In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
Load More Information about Potassium (K) in Blood Test
How It Is Done
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
Watch How It Feels
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
Risks
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
Results
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
Many conditions can affect potassium levels. Blood potassium levels also vary with age. Your doctor will talk with you about any abnormal results that may be related to your symptoms and past health.
High values High blood potassium levels may be caused by damage or injury to the kidneys. This prevents the kidneys from removing potassium from the blood normally. High blood potassium levels can also be caused by conditions that move potassium from the body's cells into the blood. These conditions include crushing injuries and heart attack Taking too many potassium supplements can also cause high levels of potassium in the blood. Too much acid (pH Some medicines, such as aldosterone antagonists and ACE inhibitors, can cause high potassium levels. Low values Low blood potassium levels can be caused by high levels of aldosterone (hyperaldosteronism) made by the adrenal glands Other conditions that can cause low blood potassium levels include severe burns, cystic fibrosis alcohol use disorder Cushing's syndrome Medicines, such as diuretics Related Information
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Current as of: April 30, 2024
