Hyperkalemia Condition Symptoms

Hyperkalemia is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is required for proper functioning of the nerves and muscles, including the heart muscle. Mild hyperkalemia is common and occurs in about 8 percent of hospitalized patients. Severe hyperkalemia is a medical emergency and can be lethal, leading to dangerous arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.

Definition

• The potassium level in the blood is normally 3.5 to 5.0 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). Hyperkalemia is therefore defined as a potassium level greater than 5.0 mEq/L.

Mild Hyperkalemia

• Mild hyperkalemia is a potassium level between 5.1 and 6.0 mEq/L. This level of hyperkalemia does not typically produce specific symptoms.

Moderate Hyperkalemia

• Moderate hyperkalemia is a potassium level in the range of 6.1 and 7.0 mEq/L. Typical symptoms include fatigue, nausea, muscle weakness and tingling sensations.

Severe Hyperkalemia

• A potassium level greater than 7.0 mEq/L is considered to be severe hyperkalemia. Potassium levels in this range will cause the heartbeat to slow and the pulse to become weak. A rapidly rising potassium level generally causes more severe symptoms than a slowly rising potassium level.

Underlying Conditions

• Conditions that cause hyperkalemia can produce additional symptoms. Common causes of hyperkalemia include kidney disease and medications that interfere with urination.