Most of the body's potassium is located inside the cells. Potassium is necessary for the normal functioning of cells, nerves, and muscles.
The body must maintain the potassium level in blood within a narrow range. A potassium level that is too high (see see Hyperkalemia (High Level of Potassium in the Blood)) or too low (see see Hypokalemia (Low Level of Potassium in the Blood)) can have serious consequences, such as an abnormal heart rhythm or even stopping of the heart (cardiac arrest). The body can use the potassium stored within cells to help maintain a constant level of potassium in blood.
The body maintains the right level of potassium by matching the amount of potassium consumed with the amount lost. Potassium is consumed in food and drinks that contain electrolytes (including potassium) and lost primarily in urine. Some potassium is also lost through the digestive tract and in sweat. Healthy kidneys can adjust the excretion of potassium to match changes in consumption.
Some drugs and certain conditions affect the movement of potassium into and out of cells, which greatly influences the potassium level in blood.
Last full review/revision July 2013 by James L. Lewis, III, MD