Bloody Good

Potassium Blood Test

Type

Blood Testing

Biomarkers

4

Duration

15 min

Results

24 hours

Assesses mineral levels essential for bone health, nerve function, and metabolic processes.

An electrolyte panel measures the minerals in your blood that carry an electrical charge — essential for nerve signaling, muscle contraction, hydration balance, and maintaining your blood's acid-base (pH) balance. The core electrolytes are sodium (fluid balance and blood pressure), potassium (heart rhythm and muscle function), chloride (acid-base balance), and bicarbonate (CO2/pH regulation). Calcium and phosphate are often included for bone health assessment. Electrolyte imbalances can cause symptoms ranging from muscle cramps and fatigue to potentially life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities. They're commonly caused by dehydration, kidney disease, medications (especially diuretics), and intense exercise.

Key Details

Biomarkers
4–6 electrolyte markers
Fasting Required
Not required
Sample Type
Blood draw
Turnaround
Same day to 24 hours
Common Use
Hydration, medication monitoring, kidney health

Who Is This For?

People taking diuretics, blood pressure medications, or other drugs that affect electrolyte balance. Athletes and endurance sport participants concerned about hydration and mineral loss. Anyone experiencing muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion. Patients with kidney disease, heart failure, or liver disease who need regular monitoring.

What's Included

Sodium (Na+)
Potassium (K+)
Chloride (Cl-)
Bicarbonate (CO2/HCO3-)
Calcium (if included)
Phosphate (if included)

Preparation Required

Fasting for 10–12 hours before your appointment is recommended for accurate results (water is fine). Avoid alcohol for 24 hours and intense exercise for 12 hours before the blood draw. Morning appointments are ideal for consistent hormone and glucose readings. The blood draw typically takes 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions