Test Overview
A test
for potassium in the urine is a 24-hour test or a one-time (spot) test that
checks how much potassium is in the urine. Potassium is both an
and a mineral. It helps keep the water
(the amount of fluid inside and outside the body's cells) and electrolyte
balance of the body. Potassium is also important in how nerves and muscles
work.
Potassium levels often change with sodium levels. When
sodium levels go up, potassium levels go down, and when sodium levels go down,
potassium levels go up. Potassium levels are also affected by a hormone called
aldosterone, which is made by the
.
Potassium levels can be
affected by how the
are working, the blood
, the amount of potassium you eat, the
levels in your body, severe vomiting, and
taking certain medicines, including potassium supplements. Certain cancer
treatments that destroy cancer cells can also make potassium levels
high.
Many foods are rich in potassium, including scallops,
potatoes, figs, bananas, prune juice, orange juice, and squash. A balanced diet
has enough potassium for the body's needs. But potassium is passed in the urine
even if the level in the body is low, so the level of potassium can get
lower.
A potassium level that is too high or too low can be
serious. Abnormal potassium levels may cause symptoms such as muscle cramps or
weakness, nausea, diarrhea, frequent urination,
, low blood pressure, confusion,
irritability, paralysis, and changes in heart rhythm.