Types

• Potassium is the major cation in the intra cellular fluid and functions as the primary buffer within the cell itself. 90% of potassium is concentrated within the cell, and damaged cells release potassium into the blood. 
• Potassium plays an important role in nerve conduction, muscle function, and helps maintain acid-base balance...

Description

• 3.5 - 5.1 mmol/L

When to get Tested

• When there is Kidney Disease, symptoms like muscle weakness, Cardiac arrhythmias, a condition treated with diuretics, on intake of medications for heart

Elevated Level

Hyperkalemia

• Oliguria
• Anemia
• Urinary obstruction
• Renal failure due to nephritis or shock
• Metabolic or respiratory acidosis
• Renal tubular acidosis 
• Hemolysis of blood
• Addison disease
• Dehyration
• Drugs like NSAID's, ACE inhibitors and potassium

Decreased Level

Hypokalemia

• Excessive loss of potassium due to diarrhoea or vomiting
• Inadequate intake of potassium
• Malabsorption 
• Severe burns
• Increased secretion of aldosterone
• Acetaminophen overdose
• Drugs like Beta blockers, lithium etc..