Q: What is the maximum allowable potassium level in blood? Is there any test to determine this? Is a blood pressure level of 98/55mmHg OK?

A:Potassium is needed for proper nerve & muscle function and is responsible for the water and electrolyte balance of the body. Its levels in the blood usually vary with sodium levels. When sodium levels increase, potassium levels decrease, and vice versa. Potassium levels can be affected by kidney function, the pH of the blood, the amount of potassium in the diet, hormone levels in the body, excessive vomiting/diarrhoea, and certain medications. The normal blood levels are 3.5-5.0 milliequivalents per litre (mE q/l) of blood. A simple blood test (Serum electrolytes) can determine its level. The normal B.P. is <120 mm of Hg systolic (the upper level) and <80 mm of Hg diastolic (the lower level). The level mentioned by you will be considered low (or hypotension).