Is Potassium Level In Blood Of 5.9 A Cause For Concern?

Posted on Tue, 7 Mar 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 7 Mar 2017 Answered on

Tue, 28 Mar 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a potassium level of 5.9. I had anaplasmosis/ehrlichiosis hoping just dehydrated...

Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You need to be investigated

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Thank you for posting your question on HealthcareMagic.
Due to your preceeding infection you are right in saying that you could be dehydrated in turn resulting in high potassium levels. Nevertheless 5.9 is quite high I would recommend you to get blood urea , serum sodium and creatinine done to know the status of your kidney.
Meanwhile do you have any chest pain or palpitations please rush to the Emergency.
Avoid bannanas and fresh fruit juices which are rich in potassium.
If you have any other medical issue do mention about it .
I would recommend you to get it tested again after 8 to 10 hours after adequate hydration as long as you are able to pass urine well.
If urination becomes an issue please rush to the ER ASAP.
Hope this helps
Best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad