What is the term for high levels of potassium in the blood?

The term for high levels of potassium in the blood is hyperkalemia. This condition occurs when the potassium concentration in the bloodstream exceeds the normal range, which can lead to serious health issues, particularly affecting heart function and muscle contractions. Hyperkalemia can be caused by various factors, such as kidney dysfunction, certain medications, excessive potassium intake, or conditions that lead to cellular breakdown.

It’s important to differentiate hyperkalemia from hypokalemia, which refers to low potassium levels in the blood, as well as from hypertension and hypotension, which are terms used to describe high and low blood pressure, respectively. Understanding these terms is crucial for diagnosing and managing health conditions related to electrolyte imbalances and cardiovascular health.