Too Much Potassium Side Effects

Our body constantly requires an adequate supply of different minerals for performing various functions. Calcium, sodium and potassium are needed in large amounts by the body and are known as macrominerals. Potassium is necessary for the proper functioning of all cells, tissues and organs. Some of the main functions of potassium include maintaining fluid balance, regulation of heartbeat, contraction of muscles, maintaining pH balance, upholding the electrical rhythm of the body, etc

We get the required amount of potassium by including potassium-rich fruits and vegetables in our daily diet. But consuming high amounts of potassium can have adverse effects on the body. Generally this condition does not arise if your diet is a well-balanced one. People taking potassium supplements intentionally for some medical reasons may experience a potassium overdose. Older people are at a higher risk for having too much potassium in their blood. This is because, their kidneys become less efficient due to aging, which results in high potassium levels in blood.

Elevated Potassium Side Effects
Increased level of potassium can have numerous side effects. Although there is no recommended daily potassium consumption level, anything above 5 mEq/L is considered as high. Too much potassium in the blood indirectly affects the functioning of the heart. It also hampers the functioning of other organs causing several problems.

• Nausea
• Muscle Weakness
• Fatigue
• Mild Paralysis
• Disrupted heartbeat
• Problem in breathing
• Seizure
• Numbness or tingling sensation in the extremities

The condition becomes severe if ignored and can lead to serious problems. Hence it is advisable to check your potassium levels at regular intervals, especially if you have a kidney problem. If proper measures are not taken, and the potassium level increases further, it can lead to other health issues which can be difficult to cure. Some of them are as follows.

Effects of Too High Potassium
A condition, known as hyperkalemia, arises when the blood potassium level rises above 5.5 mEq/L. It is the most serious of high potassium side effects and is a life-threatening condition. Reduced kidney function, improper protein metabolism and infections are some of the causes of hyperkalemia. Diabetes may also be one of the causes leading to hyperkalemia. Certain medications like potassium sparing diuretics and potassium supplements may also lead to this condition.

Potassium is considered as an electrolyte, which helps in sending messages to the brain through nerves. Variation in the level of potassium can affect the nervous system by sending inappropriate signals. This can affect the performance of speech, mobility, bowel functions, and also lead to paralysis.

High levels of potassium in the blood has adverse effects on the muscle system as well. It can cause fatigue and weakness in muscles. It can affect the skeletal muscles, result in hyperkalemia. Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea are also some of the high potassium side effects. Rashes on skin and other infections may follow as a result of increased potassium levels.

Too much potassium in the body is serious as compared to its deficiency, as potassium deficiency can be managed by potassium supplements. But it is difficult to lower the potassium level easily. Therefore right amount of potassium should be included in the diet. Do not go for potassium supplements unless prescribed by your doctor. Have your blood potassium levels checked over a certain period of time to prevent the side effects of high potassium.