Abnormally high levels of potassium in the blood, typically above 5.5 mEq/L. Can cause dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities and muscle weakness, potentially leading to cardiac arrest.
From Greek 'hyper' (excessive), Arabic 'al qali' (plant ashes, source of potassium), and Greek 'haima' (blood). The term became critical with the advent of dialysis and organ transplantation, where potassium imbalances can be life-threatening.
Hyperkalemia is called the 'silent killer' because it can cause sudden cardiac death without warning symptoms. Your heart's electrical system is exquisitely sensitive to potassium levels - even small increases can turn a normal heartbeat into a chaotic, fatal rhythm within minutes.
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