Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Does My Blood Test Report Indicate?
Good afternoon DR. Recently had a blood test which revealed a slight elevation in potassium level. Going for a follow up visit for another blood test as requested by my Doctor. Lab results may differ at other lab locations I was told. Is this normal procedure and is there reason for concern regarding this rise in potassium levels. Thanks
Tue, 29 Jan 2019
Hi,
Raised potassium can be due to many reasons but first, we recheck the potassium levels by getting a fresh sample tested as red blood cells in old samples may get broken releasing potassium and give us false high potassium.
When rechecked, it may be due to increasing potassium intakes like tablets or good containing potassium, or impaired excretion if potassium by kidneys so we check renal function tests.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Muhammad Zahir Shah, Internal Medicine Specialist
Raised potassium can be due to many reasons but first, we recheck the potassium levels by getting a fresh sample tested as red blood cells in old samples may get broken releasing potassium and give us false high potassium.
When rechecked, it may be due to increasing potassium intakes like tablets or good containing potassium, or impaired excretion if potassium by kidneys so we check renal function tests.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Muhammad Zahir Shah, Internal Medicine Specialist
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....