What Causes High Levels of Potassium in the Body?
Hyperkalemia is the term given to high potassium levels circulating in the blood system of the body. Potassium is a necessary electrolyte used for the proper function of metabolism, heart rate, regulation of muscle tissue and digestion. While potassium is necessary, high levels of it has many side effects that can lead to several life-threatening conditions, including heart failure and renal failure. Root causes of hyperkalemia can stem from either diet or malfunctioning cell excretion of the electrolyte. Causes The kidneys are responsible for keeping homeostasis for levels of potassium as well as other electrolytes. High potassium levels may signal kidney failure, including kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, acute or chronic renal failure, lupus nephritis or obstructive uropathy. Other causes can be from low levels of aldosterone, a hormone used in regulation of potassium levels. Symptoms Some patients with mild increases in potassium in the blood will feel no signs of any symptoms.
