High Potassium: What It Means, Why It Matters, and How to Manage It

When your blood has too much high potassium, a condition called hyperkalemia that disrupts normal nerve and muscle function, especially in the heart. Also known as hyperkalemia, it doesn’t always cause symptoms—but when it does, they can be life-threatening. Most people don’t realize their potassium is high until a routine blood test or a sudden heart issue brings it to light.

Kidney function, the body’s main way of filtering out excess potassium. Also known as renal clearance, it’s the reason people with chronic kidney disease are at highest risk. If your kidneys aren’t working well, potassium builds up fast. Medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and certain diuretics can also raise levels, even in people with healthy kidneys. And while we often hear about eating more potassium for heart health, too much from supplements, salt substitutes, or even large amounts of bananas, potatoes, and spinach can push you over the edge.

Diet and potassium, a key factor you can control to manage levels. Also known as potassium-rich foods, they’re not the enemy—but timing and portion matter. You don’t need to cut them out completely, but you do need to know which ones are high and how to prepare them safely. Boiling vegetables, for example, can reduce their potassium content by up to 50%. And if you’re on dialysis or have advanced kidney disease, your doctor may give you a specific daily limit—often under 2,000 mg.

High potassium doesn’t always mean you’re sick. Sometimes it’s just a side effect of a medication you’re taking, or a temporary spike after a big meal. But ignoring it is risky. Too much potassium can slow your heartbeat, cause muscle weakness, or even trigger cardiac arrest. That’s why regular blood tests and open conversations with your doctor or pharmacist are critical.

You’ll find real-world advice here—not theory. Posts cover how to track your potassium levels, what meds to watch out for, how to adjust your diet without feeling deprived, and why some people react differently to the same foods. Whether you’re managing kidney disease, taking blood pressure meds, or just curious about why your doctor mentioned potassium, this collection gives you the facts you need to stay safe.