The mineral potassium is an electrolyte (electricity-conducting substance) that the human body requires to help the kidneys, heart, muscles and nerve cells function properly. When the bloodstream contains too little potassium, the condition is called hypokalemia.
Symptoms
Common side effects of hypokalemia include constipation, fatigue, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), muscle cramps, upset stomach and weakness. Symptoms usually arise when the blood's level of potassium is less than 2.5 milliequivalents per liter.
Causes
An extremely low level of potassium frequently occurs when too much of the mineral leaves the body through the intestines or urine due to issues like chronic kidney failure, diuretics, eating disorders, excessive sweating, laxative abuse and vomiting. Potassium deficiency rarely results from consuming too little potassium.
Diagnosis
Hypokalemia is most often diagnosed when a doctor discovers the low amount of potassium following a blood test to identify another medical condition.
Treatment
Treating hypokalemia requires restoring a proper level of potassium, which may involve taking potassium supplements and treating any underlying medical problem responsible for the deficiency.
Warning
Although hypokalemia is treatable, it can also be deadly if potassium levels drop too low. The condition demands immediate medical attention and should never be ignored.
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