What is a potassium blood test?

A potassium blood test measures the amount of potassium in your blood. Potassium is a type of electrolyte. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals in your body that help control muscle and nerve activity, maintain fluid levels, and perform other important functions. Your body needs potassium to help your heart and muscles work properly. Potassium levels that are too high or too low may indicate a medical problem.

What is it used for?

A potassium blood test is often included in a series of routine blood tests called an electrolyte panel. The test may also be used to monitor or diagnose conditions related to abnormal potassium levels. These conditions include kidney disease, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Why do I need a potassium blood test?

Your health care provider may order a potassium blood test as part of your regular checkup or to monitor an existing condition such as diabetes or kidney disease. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of having too much or too little potassium.

If your potassium levels are too high, your symptoms may include:

• Irregular heart rhythms
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Paralysis in the arms and legs

If your potassium levels are too low, your symptoms may include:

• Irregular heart rhythms
• Muscle cramps
• Twitches
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Constipation