Potassium is a mineral that is needed by the human body in small quantities. It forms a group of important minerals that are known as trace minerals. The quantity of these minerals in the body and in the blood is usually very low when compared to other substances in the blood. This does not mean that these minerals are not important for the body. Trace minerals help with vitally important body functions. Potassium is classified as an electrolyte.

Potassium levels blood tests are conducted to check for the level of this substance in the blood. The potassium levels blood tests are usually a part of a series of tests to determine the level of electrolytes in the blood. The potassium levels blood test results may be classified as high, low or normal. An elevated potassium levels blood test result is known as hyperkalemia whereas low potassium levels diagnosis in the blood is a condition that is known as hypokalemia. See also iron levels in blood normal range

High potassium levels causes include kidney damage and the use of specific drugs that can cause hyperkalemia. These drugs affect the rate at which potassium is removed from the body and are therefore responsible for the condition. A potassium levels urine test could be conducted to detect the amount of urine taken out by the body. Low potassium levels symptoms include excessive sweating, diarrhea and vomiting. Low potassium levels may also exist as a result of an insufficient intake of this substance in the diet. The chances of this are extremely low but cannot be ruled out until the individual’s condition has been properly studied by a doctor.

Potassium is an important substance associated with the normal functioning of the heart. It is therefore tested regularly as part of normal health checkups. Health checkups could also include other types of blood tests such as tests for other electrolytes and also tests that determine the condition and quality of the blood flowing through the body. The method of blood collection for potassium levels blood tests is simple. Blood is collected using a needle that is attached to a vial which is used to collect the blood that flows out of the vein. This blood is then sent to a laboratory for analysis following which the results of the potassium levels test can be determined. In many cases, the potassium levels in the blood are tested as part of a general checkup of electrolyte levels even though this particular electrolyte is not suspected of actually causing any problem.