OVERVIEW
The test measures the amount of potassium in the urine or blood.
Potassium is one of the most important minerals of the body. It is necessary for important functions of
the body including proper muscle functioning and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
The test measures the amount of potassium in the urine. It helps diagnose kidney and adrenal gland
disorders.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How is this test performed?
This test is performed on a urine or blood sample.
What are the risks associated with this test?
There is no significant risk associated with this test.
Is there any preparation required before the test?
No preparation required before this test.
What are the symptoms and causes of Hyperkalemia?
Following are the symptoms of hyperkalemia:
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Heart rhythm abnormality
- Nausea
The cause may be one of the following:
- Acute kidney failure
- Chronic kidney disease
What are the symptoms and causes of hypokalemia?
Following are the symptoms of hypokalemia:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Muscle cramps
The cause may be one of the following:
- Medications
- Diabetes insipidus
- Loss of a large amount of fluid
- Malnutrition
INTERPRETATION OF THE TEST:
Normally, the amount of potassium in the blood is 25-125 milliequivalents/ liter/ day.
Higher than normal levels may be due to the following reasons:
- Acute tubular necrosis
- Low magnesium levels
- Renal tubular acidosis
- Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia
- Medicines such as antibiotics
- Alcoholism
- Addison’s disease decreased secretion of steroid hormones
Lower than normal levels may be due to the following reasons:
- Excessive laxative usage
- Excessive sweating
- Adrenal gland insufficiency
- Chronic kidney disease
- Diabetic ketoacidosis excessive production of ketones
- Folic acid deficiency
WHY GET TESTED?
Potassium is a very important electrolyte and is responsible for acid-base balance, neuromuscular
function, etc.
You may need a potassium fluid test if you suffer from one of the following:
- Adrenal gland problems e.g. Conn’s Syndrome (secretion of too much aldosterone)
- Hyperkalemia (higher than normal potassium levels) or Hypokalemia (lower than normal potassium levels)
- Kidney disease
- It may also be done to check the effects of any medication, treatment, or if you have
- vomiting or diarrhea.
