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Potassium (K) in Blood Test

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A potassium test checks how much potassium is in the blood. Potassium is both an electrolyte, Opens dialog and a mineral. It helps keep the water (the amount of fluid inside and outside the body's cells) and electrolyte balance of the body. Potassium is also important in how nerves and muscles work.

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, Opens dialog.

Potassium levels can be affected by how the kidneys, Opens dialog are working, the blood pH, Opens dialog, the amount of potassium you eat, the hormone, Opens dialog levels in your body, severe vomiting, and taking certain medicines, such as diuretics, Opens dialog and potassium supplements. Certain cancer treatments that destroy cancer cells can also make potassium levels high.

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, Opens dialog, low blood pressure, confusion, irritability, paralysis, and changes in heart rhythm.

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.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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