Normal Potassium Levels

Potassium is one of the essential minerals needed to keep our body healthy. The amount of this mineral in the blood can be a very important factor indicating a probable health problem. Almost 98% of it present in our body is found in our cells. Either way, its high or low level can be harmful. Kidneys are affected in both these conditions. So the crux of the matter is that its normal levels are imperative.

Normal Levels of Potassium in Blood


Ideally the potassium level in the blood should be between 3.7 to 5.2 mili Equivalent/L. This figure may slightly vary from an individual to other. So in other cases, 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/l is also considered as normal in adults. Basically the kidneys have to bear the brunt in both the scenarios. Interestingly enough, kidneys give it out and also regulate the overall levels in our body.



For our heart muscle to function properly, the normal level of potassium is vital. If it is insufficient, the heart contractions can be disturbed. It can lead to irregular heartbeat, slow pulse and in chronic cases, even heart failure. Hence to prevent any kind of cardiac problems, it is necessary to consume this mineral through food sources.

Determining the Level


As all of us would have a fair idea, a blood test is the easiest and the best way to know if we are in the safe zone or not. If the blood test shows that the level is in the normal range, then no problem! It is fundamentally called an electrolyte level test. In case of children, the normal levels are between 3.4 and 4.7 mEq/L. However the following conditions may not give you the correct level in your blood:

• Taking potassium supplements


• Excessive usage of laxatives


• Antibiotics, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and other medicines prescribed for treating hypertension and heart problems


• Severe vomiting

In addition to that it is important to remember that most often than not the test results show low blood potassium level, rather than high. Immediately, an ECG should be done if that is the case, because as previously stated, low level in blood impairs the contraction of heart muscle.

Implications of Abnormal Levels


Abnormally levels can result in hyperkalemia or hypokalemia, respectively. Hyperkalemia is excess potassium in blood, that is 7.0 mEQ/l or higher. In extreme cases it can lead to cardiac arrest and death. High levels interfere and disturb the electrical rhythm of the heart. In addition to that, its absence can lead to obstruction in the transmission of electrical signals all through the nervous system. Hyperkalemia is caused by kidney dysfunction, problems related to the adrenal gland and due to the mineral sifting out of cells as a result of elevated acid levels in the blood.



On the contrary, if the level of potassium is low, it is called hypokalemia. There are various reasons for this dip. These are diuretic medications, vomiting, diarrhea, increased level of corticosteroids, usage of laxative, cushing’s syndrome, renal tubular acidosis, low magnesium level in the body and a few others. Muscle ache, cramps and weakness is one of the most prominent indicators.



Eating fruits, especially bananas, green leafy vegetables and legumes will help in retaining healthy and normal amount of potassium in the body. Finally, consult a doctor as soon as you realize that there might be a change in the level in your body. Take Care!

Normal Potassium Levels