Home  /  Health and Fitness  /  What Are the Symptoms of Hyperkalemia

What Are the Symptoms of Hyperkalemia

What Are the Symptoms of Hyperkalemia

While appropriate amounts of minerals are necessary for the smooth functioning of one’s body, too much of anything does more harm than good. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that is important for the muscles, nerves, and the heart. The kidneys are responsible for regulating the amount of potassium in the body by flushing out excess potassium. The normal range of potassium in the blood is between 3.6 to 5.5 mmol/L. If potassium levels in the blood are higher than this, it can be life-threatening. Hyperkalemia is the condition where the potassium levels in one’s bloodstream are higher than normal.

The symptoms of high potassium levels may range from mild to severe. If the levels of potassium in the blood are high enough, you may experience the following:

  • Trouble with breathing: Breathing difficulties are one of the most common symptoms of high potassium levels. You may face some breathing troubles while working out, walking, or even during normal day-to-day activities.
  • Tiredness or weakness: You may feel extremely tired and weak at the end of the day. You may not have done enough work to justify this weakness, yet you may feel exhausted.
  • A feeling of numbness or tingling sensation: You may experience a numbing or tingling sensation in certain parts of your body. This symptom may be irregular at first but becomes more common with time.
  • Nausea or vomiting: If the levels of potassium in your blood are high, you may feel nauseous on a regular basis.
  • Chest pain: A searing pain through the chest, which varies from a mild sensation to a burning feeling, is one of the known symptoms of high potassium levels in the body.
  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeats: You may suffer from an irregular heart rhythm if you have high potassium levels.

It is essential to visit a doctor immediately if you are suffering from any of these symptoms of high potassium levels. If not treated on time, you may experience several complications such as cardiac arrest and altered neuromuscular control. Numerous medications are available in the market to treat this condition. A few them include Kalexate, VELTASSA, Kionex, Lokelma, and Neut. However, before taking any of these medicines, ensure that you consult your doctor and get his or her suggestions. Changes to your diet are also recommended to keep this disease at bay.