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High Potassium Level Symptoms

A high level of potassium is known as hyperkalemia and may be any potassium level above the normal range of 3.5 to 5.0 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). Hyperkalemia causes a variety of symptoms and can be fatal.

  1. General Symptoms

    • Hyperkalemia is usually asymptomatic until the potassium level is well above the normal range. The first symptoms may be a general fatigue and weakness.

    Specific Symptoms

    • Higher potassium levels can produce symptoms more specific to hyperkalemia. These most often include heart palpitations that progress to cardiac arrhythmia.

    Complications

    • A high potassium level may be asymptomatic until the hyperkalemia is already severe. A potassium level above 7.0 mEq/L can cause coma, cardiac arrest and death.

    Metabolic Acidosis

    • Metabolic acidosis is a low blood pH with a metabolic cause. It's commonly associated with hyperkalemia and may cause mild hyperventilation.

    Addison's Disease

    • Addison's disease is an adrenal gland disorder that typically results in hyperkalemia. It also causes high blood sugar and abdominal pain.

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