Blood Potassium Level (Kalemia)

Blood Potassium Level (Kalemia)

General Information

Potassium is a positively charged ion (called a cation) found in the blood and cells. It plays many important roles in the body. It is in charge of keeping cells electrically neutral. Variations in potassium levels will result in changes in heart rhythm, muscle contraction and nerve conduction. A sudden change is more dangerous than chronically abnormal levels. Several mechanisms involving hormones and other blood electrolytes (such as chloride and sodium) keep tight control over potassium levels. Among other things, potassium levels provide information on kidney function and the cause of certain arrhythmias.

High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) may be the result of:

• advanced age;
• diabetes;
• heart failure;
• renal insufficiency.

The use of certain drugs:

• Anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen (Advil®), diclofenac (Voltaren®, etc.))
• Angiotensin receptor antagonists (losartan (Cozaar®), candesartan (Atacand®))
• Certain potassium-sparing diuretics (amiloride, triamterene)
• Heparins
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ramipril (Altace®), perindopril (Coversyl®))
• Spironolactone (Aldactone®)
• Potassium supplements (K-Dur®)
• Trimetoprim (Proloprim®)

Low levels of potassium (hypokalemia) may be the result of:

Decreased absorption due to:

• Alcoholism
• Poor diet or malnutrition
• Malabsorption
• Eating disorder (anorexia, bulimia)

Increased excretion due to:

• Severe and prolonged vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Laxative abuse
• Bowel fistulas
• Hyperaldosteronism
• Cushing's syndrome

An internal cause or illness:

• Chronic heart failure
• Kidney damage
• Liver damage

The use of certain drugs:

• Amphotericin B
• Certain diuretics (ex. hydrochlorothiazide (Hydrodiuril®), furosemide (Lasix®))
• Insulin
• Salbutamol and certain other medications for asthma

Factors that can interfere with test accuracy

Poor blood collection techniques, which include prolonged tourniquet application and a lengthy delay between sample-taking and analysis, may affect test results.

What you need to know before the test

Before going for blood tests, a procedure or other exam, it is best to always bring a list of all the drugs you take (prescription, OTC and natural health products). Unless told otherwise, you should take your medication as usual on the day of the test. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist for more information.