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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Tests and Exams > Potassium: Results and Values

Potassium

Alternate Names : Serum Potassium, K+, Lytes

Potassium | Preparation & Expectations | Results and Values | Attribution


What do the test results mean?

The normal value for potassium in the blood is 3.5 to 5.1 mEq/liter. The potassium has to remain in this range for the heart to function properly.

Potassium can become too high because of conditions including:

  • Kidney problems
  • Dehydration
  • Technical problems with the blood specimen

    • Many things can cause the potassium to become too low including:

  • Diuretics, also called water pills
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea
  • Cirrhosis of the liver

    •

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    Potassium: Preparation & Expectations

    		 

    Potassium: Attribution

    Author: Melinda Ratini, DO, MS
    Reviewer: Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 06/13/02






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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006