Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services if you have a known or suspected high potassium level together with:
Fainting, collapse, or severe dizziness
A new irregular, very slow, or pounding heartbeat
Severe or rapidly worsening muscle weakness
Chest discomfort or difficulty breathing
Follow the instructions given with the result, including attending an emergency department if advised.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical advice the same day if a laboratory or healthcare service tells you that your potassium is high.
Do not wait for symptoms.
Contact the team managing your condition sooner if you start a supplement or salt substitute containing potassium, or if illness is affecting your ability to eat and drink.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine follow-up for planned repeat blood tests, medicine monitoring, or dietary support.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on High potassium level. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.