Abnormally elevated serum potassium concentrations are referred to as hyperkalemia.

Hyperkalemia occurrs when potassium intake exceeds the capacity of the kidneys to eliminate it.

Since lowering potassium too low can be dangerous, and potassium has a very important function in the body, I would like to ask you a question first.

Have you been using any of these medications that can raise potassium levels?

Medications Associated with Hyperkalemia.
Medication Family Specific medications... Potassium-sparing agents Spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors Captopril, enalapril, fosinopril Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAID) Indomethacin, ibuprofen, ketorolac Anti-infective agents Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, pentamidine Anticoagulant Heparin Cardiac glycoside Digitalis Anti-hypertensive agents Beta-blockers, alpha- and beta-blockers Angiotensin receptor blockers Losartan, valsartan, irbesartan, candesartan, potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics.


THE LINUS PAULING INSTITUTE RECOMMENDATION

There is considerable evidence that a diet supplying at least 4.7 grams/day of potassium is associated with decreased risk of stroke, hypertension, osteoporosis, and kidney stones. Fruits and vegetables are among the richest sources of dietary potassium, and a large body of evidence supports the association of increased fruit and vegetable intakes with reduced risk of chronic disease. Consequently, the Linus Pauling Institute recommends increasing potassium intake to at least 4.7 grams/day by increasing consumption of potassium-rich foods, especially fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Adults over the age of 65

A diet supplying at least 4.7 grams/day of potassium is also appropriate for healthy older adults since such diets are associated with decreased risk of stroke, hypertension, osteoporosis, and kidney stones. This recommendation does not apply to individuals who have been advised to limit potassium consumption by a health care professional