electrolytes · K · K+
Potassium
An electrolyte essential for nerve signals and the heartbeat. Both low and high potassium can affect heart rhythm, so it's kept in a narrow range. Note: a tightly squeezed or hemolyzed sample can falsely raise the result.
This page is general wellness education, not medical advice. Your own lab’s reference range and your clinician’s interpretation always take precedence.
Typical reference range
| Group | General range |
|---|---|
| Adults | 3.5 – 5.2 mEq/L |
Units: mEq/L. Ranges vary by lab and assay — read yours against the range printed on your own report.
What high Potassium can mean
- Reduced kidney function
- Certain medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, K-sparing diuretics)
- Hemolyzed sample (false)
- Acidosis
What low Potassium can mean
- Diuretics
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Low intake
- Magnesium deficiency