What medical term describes a higher than normal level of potassium?

The term that describes a higher than normal level of potassium in the blood is hyperkalemia. In this condition, the potassium levels exceed the normal range, which is critical to monitor as it can lead to significant health issues, particularly concerning heart function. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining normal cellular function, including the transmission of electrical impulses in the heart and muscles.

Understanding the various terms related to electrolyte imbalances is important in veterinary medicine, as these conditions can significantly affect an animal's health. Other terms mentioned, like hyponatremia, refer to low sodium levels, hypercalcemia refers to elevated calcium levels, and hypokalemia pertains to decreased potassium levels. Each of these conditions points to specific imbalances with their respective electrolytes, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive understanding of electrolyte levels and their implications in clinical settings.