What is the most common cause of hyperkalemia?
A) liver cirrhosis
B) inadequate excretion of potassium because of renal failure
C) inadequate excretion of sodium because of renal failure
D) high blood cholesterol levels
E) chronically low blood pressure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most common cause of hyperkalemia is inadequate excretion of potassium because of renal failure. This can be due to acute or chronic renal failure, or other kidney diseases that impair the kidney's ability to excrete potassium. Liver cirrhosis, high blood cholesterol levels, and chronically low blood pressure are not typically associated with hyperkalemia. Inadequate excretion of sodium because of renal failure may lead to hyponatremia, not hyperkalemia.

What Is the Most Common Cause of Hyperkalemia