Potassium

Understanding the marker

Potassium helps nerves, muscles and the heart work normally. The blood test measures the potassium circulating in the blood.

Potassium is interpreted with kidney function, medicines and symptoms. Sample haemolysis can cause a falsely high result, but an unexpected elevation must be assessed rather than assumed to be a sample error. Both high and low levels can affect heart rhythm.

What does high Potassium mean?

A high potassium result needs assessment with kidney function, medicines and the sample's quality. Sample handling can affect potassium, but this must be checked rather than assumed. Significant elevations can affect heart function and need prompt medical assessment.

What does low Potassium mean?

A low potassium result is assessed with the actual level, symptoms, kidney function, fluid losses and any medicines. Significant abnormalities can affect muscle and heart function and need prompt medical assessment.