Potassium keeps your heart and muscles working. Because both high and low levels disturb the heart rhythm, abnormal results are taken seriously.
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Normal | 3.5–5.0 mmol/L |
| Low (hypokalaemia) | < 3.5 mmol/L |
| High (hyperkalaemia) | > 5.0 mmol/L |
Potassium controls the heart’s electrical activity — a high level can trigger a life-threatening rhythm. That is why it is corrected urgently when very high.
Yes — if red cells break during collection (haemolysis), potassium leaks out and reads high. If a result is unexpectedly high, the test is often repeated.
MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.