About high potassium (K+) levels (aka, “hyperkalemia”)

Learn more about high blood potassium levels–a condition known as hyperkalemia.

Women with HyperkalemiaWomen with Hyperkalemia

Not an actual patient.

So, what is hyperkalemia anyway?

Potassium is a nutrient that helps cells function. It helps keep your muscles, nerves, and heart working well. It is also important for digestive and bone health. However, too much potassium in your blood can be dangerous. When blood potassium levels are too high, it is known as hyperkalemia.

You can find out your potassium levels through routine blood tests ordered by your doctor. A normal potassium level is between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L. Any level above 5.0 mEq/L may be considered high and potentially dangerous. In some cases, up to 5.2 mEq/L is considered normal. Ask your doctor about your potassium levels and if you may need a medication to help remove the excess potassium from your body to help treat hyperkalemia.

SLIDE THE BUTTON ALONG THE LINE TO LEARN ABOUT POTASSIUM LEVELS

Normal

Blood potassium level between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L*

Hypokalemia

Blood potassium level less than 3.5 mEq/L

Hyperkalemia

Blood potassium level more than 5.0 mEq/L

Normal
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†Like high potassium, low potassium can also potentially cause serious health issues.

*In some cases, up to 5.2 mEq/L is considered normal.

Symptoms and serious warning signs of hyperkalemia

Symptoms

You may not be aware that your potassium is high. Many times, high potassium levels are only detected during routine blood work. However, there are some things to look out for. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible:

LOKELMA for Muscle Fatigue in HK
Muscle fatigue
HK Weakness Symptom
Weakness
Hand Tingling Sensation
Tingling or unusual sensations

Serious warning signs

If there is very high potassium in the blood or if symptoms below show, hyperkalemia can be life-threatening. High potassium levels can recurRecurSomething that occurs often and repeatedly., spike, or remain high. If you begin to experience any of these serious warning signs, seek immediate medical assistance:

Fluttering Heartbeat
Fluttering or pounding heartbeat
HK Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath
HK Patient Diagnosed with Chest Pain
Chest pain
LOKELMA for HK Patient with Paralysis
ParalysisParalysisThe loss of muscle movement in a part of your body.
LOKELMA for HK and Vomiting
Nausea or vomiting
HK Delay Symptom

Don’t delay.

Experiencing serious warning signs? Call 911 or go to the emergency room and seek immediate medical care.

LOKELMA is indicated for the treatment of hyperkalemia in adults. LOKELMA should not be used as an emergency treatment for life-threatening hyperkalemia because of its delayed onset of action.

The role of the kidneys

  • The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs in your body responsible for filtering blood and removing certain electrolytes, including extra potassium, waste, and fluid from the body
  • After being filtered, the extra potassium is then removed from your body through your urine
  • When your kidneys are not working properly, the potassium level in your blood can be higher than what is considered as normal
Role of Kidney in Your Body Role of Kidney in Your Body

Who is at higher risk for hyperkalemia?

People with certain health conditions or on certain medications may have a higher chance of developing high potassium levels. These include:

Kidney Problems
Certain kidney problems
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure
Diabetes in HK
Diabetes
Heart Failure Risk in HK
Heart failure
Treat HK with Medications
Certain medications to treat these conditions

Potassium is found in many foods

Your healthcare provider or a dietitian may help you plan your diet to make sure you are not consuming too much potassium through the foods and drinks you consume. But of course, it’s important that you continue to maintain a healthy diet. As a general guide, here are some foods you may want to limit or avoid:

Want to learn more about treating high potassium levels?

Learn more about LOKELMA as a treatment option.

Why LOKELMA?