Description
A Potassium blood test measures the level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays an important role in normal heart rhythm, muscle function, nerve signaling, and fluid balance.
What Does This Test Evaluate?
Potassium testing can provide information about:
- Electrolyte balance
- Kidney function
- Heart and muscle function
- Effects of certain medications
- Dehydration or fluid imbalance
- Abnormally high or low potassium levels
Why Test Potassium?
Both high potassium (hyperkalemia) and low potassium (hypokalemia) can affect muscle and heart function. Potassium abnormalities may occur with kidney disorders, vomiting or diarrhea, dehydration, hormonal disorders, or medications such as certain diuretics and blood pressure medications.
Potassium is commonly included in metabolic panels but can also be ordered individually when a specific potassium level is desired.
Specimen: Blood draw Preparation: No fasting typically required
