Potassium is a vital mineral and an electrolyte that is essential to the human body. It regulates water balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. Potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining normal heart function and muscle function.

It works in collaboration with sodium to maintain the body's water balance, which is essential for cellular function.

Potassium levels are also a key diagnostic indicator. Levels that are too high or too low may indicate underlying problems such as kidney disease, heart problems, or nerve and muscle imbalances.

The potassium test is often included in a larger panel of analyses, but some situations warrant a specific evaluation:

• Muscle weakness or cramps : Potential symptoms of potassium imbalance.
• Heart problems : In case of arrhythmia or palpitations.
• Kidney disease : The kidneys regulate potassium levels, and failure can cause an imbalance.
• Nervous system problems : Potassium plays a key role in nerve conduction.
• Treatment monitoring : Some medications or therapies require regular monitoring of potassium levels.

The potassium test is usually done by taking a blood test. Here are the most common methods:

• Complete metabolic panel (CMP) : A routine blood test that includes potassium to assess metabolism and organ function.
• Electrolytic panel : Specific measurement of electrolytes, including potassium.

Preparations

• Avoid eating or taking certain medications before the test, as recommended by your doctor.
• Always tell your doctor what supplements or medications you are taking, as they may affect the results.

Normal potassium levels may vary slightly depending on age and health status:

• Children and adolescents (1-18 years old) : 3.6-5.2 mmol/L
• Adults (18 and over) : 4.0-5.0 mmol/L
• Pregnant women :
  • Up to 12 weeks: 3.6-5.0 mmol/L
  • Up to 27 weeks: 3.3-5.0 mmol/L
  • Up to 42 weeks: 3.3-5.1 mmol/L

note : The normal ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratories and methods used.

High Potassium Levels (Hyperkalemia)

High levels can signal a variety of health conditions:

Common causes:

• Kidney disease : The kidneys normally eliminate excess potassium.
• Potassium-rich diet : Problem for people with reduced kidney function.
• Medications : Some treatments may alter potassium regulation.
• Hormonal imbalances : For example, Addison's disease.
• Metabolic disorders : Affecting the electrolyte balance.

Recommendations:

• Limit foods that are high in potassium (bananas, avocados, spinach).
• Follow your doctor's instructions to adjust treatments.
• Maintain adequate hydration.

Low Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia)

Low levels may also reflect health conditions.

Common causes:

• Low potassium diet : Dietary deficiency.
• Excessive fluid loss : Sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Digestive problems : Malabsorption.
• Hormonal imbalances : Cushing's syndrome.
• Significant blood loss : Reduces potassium levels.

Recommendations:

• Increase the consumption of foods rich in potassium (sweet potatoes, oranges, green vegetables).
• Check your magnesium levels as they influence potassium retention.
• See a doctor to treat underlying causes.

In case of potassium imbalance, consult:

• General practitioner : For an initial assessment.
• Nephrologist : For kidney problems.
• Cardiologist : If cardiac disorders are suspected.
• Endocrinologist : For hormonal imbalances.

Prompt and appropriate management is essential to prevent serious complications associated with abnormal potassium levels.