When your blood has too much high potassium, a condition called hyperkalemia where potassium levels rise above the safe range. Also known as hyperkalemia, it doesn’t always cause symptoms—but when it does, they can be life-threatening. Potassium is a mineral your nerves and muscles need to work right, especially your heart. But if your kidneys can’t flush out the extra, it builds up quietly—and that’s when trouble starts.
Kidney disease, a condition where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and balance minerals is the most common cause of high potassium. If you have chronic kidney disease, even foods like bananas, potatoes, or spinach can push your levels too high. Blood pressure, a measure of how hard your blood pushes against artery walls meds like ACE inhibitors or ARBs can also raise potassium, especially when combined with salt substitutes or potassium supplements. And if you’re on diuretics that spare potassium—or have diabetes—your risk goes up too.
Most people with mild high potassium feel nothing. But when levels climb past 6.0 mmol/L, you might get muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or even sudden cardiac arrest. That’s why doctors check potassium during routine blood tests, especially for people on kidney or heart meds. The fix isn’t always about cutting out healthy foods—it’s about timing, portion control, and knowing what your body can handle. Some people need a special low-potassium diet. Others need medication to pull potassium out of the blood. And for those with advanced kidney disease, dialysis might be the only option.
The posts below cover real cases and practical advice from people managing high potassium every day. You’ll find guides on kidney-friendly eating, how certain meds affect your levels, and what to do when your numbers creep up. No fluff. Just clear, usable info to help you stay safe and in control.
