Hyperkalemia natural history, complications, and prognosis


 * Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Priyamvada Singh, M.B.B.S. [mailto:psingh@perfuse.org]

Overview
Hyperkalemia is an elevated blood level (above 5.0 mmol/L) of the electrolyte potassium. Extreme degrees of hyperkalemia are considered a medical emergency due to the risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias.

Outlook/Prognosis
The outcome with this condition varies. In some people, the disorder causes deadly complications, while others tolerate it well.

Possible complications

 * Arrhythmias
 * Cardiac arrest
 * Changes in nerve and muscle (neuromuscular) control