Having higher-than-normal levels of potassium in your blood can be the result of a variety of conditions and circumstances. Cushing’s syndrome (when your body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol or if you take certain steroid hormones)Ī blood potassium level of 7.0 millimoles per liter or higher can be life threatening.hyperaldosteronism (when the adrenal gland releases too much of the hormone aldosterone).diabetes, particularly after taking insulin.certain medications, such as corticosteroids, some antibiotics, and antifungals.gastrointestinal disorders, chronic diarrhea, vomiting.Lower-than-normal levels of potassium can be due to: The amount of potassium in your blood is so small that tiny increases or decreases can cause serious problems. For that reason, you should ask your doctor to interpret your specific results. It’s important to note that individual laboratories may use different values. It’s vital to the functioning of nerve and muscle cells.Ī normal potassium level is between 3.6 and 5.2 millimoles per liter. Your body needs potassium to function normally. What do the results of a potassium test mean?
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In some cases, your healthcare professional may have trouble entering a suitable vein. Risks and side effects of a potassium test are the same as for any routine blood test. The test generally takes only a few minutes. The band and the needle will then be removed and the site will be covered with a small bandage. Blood will then be collected into a tube. You may feel a sting or the prick of the needle. Your healthcare professional will wrap a band around your upper arm to create pressure so that your veins swell.Ī needle will be inserted into your vein. The potassium test is performed like other routine blood tests.Ī site on your arm, usually the inside of your elbow or the back of your hand, will be cleaned with antiseptic. Ask your doctor for specific instructions prior to your test day. Prior to the test, your doctor may want you to stop taking any medications that could affect the test results.