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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffHyperkalemia (high potassium level) occurs when the level of potassium in your blood is higher than normal. Potassium is a nutrient that is critical to the function of nerve and muscles cells, including those in your heart.
Your blood potassium level is normally 3.6 to 4.8 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). Having a blood potassium level higher than 6.0 mEq/L can be dangerous and requires immediate treatment.
- Hollander-Rodriguez JC, et al. Hyperkalemia. American Family Physician. 2006;73:283.
- Laboratory reference values. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; July 2009.
- Hyperkalemia. University of Maryland Medical Center. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/hyperkalemia-000085.htm. Accessed Sept. 8, 2009.
- Wilkinson JM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 11, 2008.
