What is a potential consequence of untreated high potassium levels due to ACE inhibitors?

Untreated high potassium levels, or hyperkalemia, can significantly impact the heart's electrical activity, leading to cardiac arrhythmias. ACE inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart failure, can elevate potassium levels because they inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme that helps regulate potassium balance in the kidneys.

When potassium levels rise excessively, it disrupts the balance of electrolytes necessary for normal cardiac function, increasing the risk of arrhythmias. This can manifest as palpitations, abnormal heart rhythms, or even more severe consequences, such as cardiac arrest, if not addressed promptly.

In this context, dehydration, hypoglycemia, and hypercalcemia are unrelated to the direct effects of high potassium levels caused by ACE inhibitors. While they are important conditions to understand, they do not directly correlate to the consequences of elevated potassium levels in this specific case.