Hyperkalaemia is a common electrolyte disorder which, when severe, can cause lifethreatening cardiac arrhythmias and paralysis of the respiratory muscles. It is therefore crucial for clinicians to have a clear understanding of its management. Hyperkalaemia is usually caused by a combination of factors, but renal impairment and drugs are often implicated. The rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease and increasing use of medications that interact with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system have resulted in a sharp rise in the prevalence of hyperkalaemia.
