Causes of Low Potassium

Potassium is one of the most essential minerals required by the human body and is crucial for the normal functioning of muscle cells and nerves. It is a positively charged ion (Cation) that is present inside the cells. Potassium plays an important role in normal cellular functions and metabolism. It also helps to maintain each cell's electrical potential, electrolyte balance and acid-base balance in the body. Potassium is necessary for maintaining both voluntary and involuntary muscles. It also contributes in the transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and regulation of heartbeats. Potassium is important for digestive health as well as the normal functioning of the heart and kidneys. It also minimizes the risk of high blood pressure and strokes.

What Causes Low Potassium

The normal level of potassium in the serum is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. If there are even slight changes in these potassium levels, it can interfere with several body functions. A reduced level of serum potassium is known as hypokalemia, while high potassium levels are referred to as hyperkalemia. Hypokalemia or potassium deficiency is characterized by muscle weakness and muscle paralysis. One out of five people is diagnosed with hypokalemia in the United States alone. But what are the causes of low potassium levels? Low potassium may occur due to various reasons. Some of the most common reasons are as mentioned below:

Kidney Problems: Certain kidney diseases such as acute or chronic renal failure or renal tubular acidosis can cause low potassium levels. Low levels of magnesium or increased production of aldosterone can also contribute to hypokalemia. Aldosterone is a hormone that increases due to adrenal tumors or renal artery stenosis. Kidneys excrete more potassium due to the overproduction of aldosterone. Elevated corticosteroid levels due to Cushing's syndrome or medications such as prednisone can also cause potassium deficiency. Diuretic medications such as furosemide or hydrichlorothiazide can lead to excessive excretion of potassium through the kidneys.

Gastrointestinal Tract Problems: Certain health conditions such as diarrhea or vomiting can lead to excess loss of potassium. Enemas or excessive use of laxatives can also cause hypokalemia. Significant hypokalemia can occur in people who have undergone ileostomy bowel surgery. Villous adenoma is a type of colon polyp, which can cause the excretion of potassium from the colon.

Medications: Low potassium levels may result from side-effects of certain medications such diuretics (water pills), insulin, prednisone, amphotericin B and aminoglycosides such as tobramycin or gentamicin. Medications used for emphysema or asthma such as steroids, bronchodilators or theophylline can also lead to low potassium levels.

Trauma can cause the shifting of potassium across the cells, which can lower the levels of serum potassium. Poor dietary intake of potassium can also cause hypokalemia. A very low potassium level (below 2.5 mEq/L) can be life-threatening and needs immediate medical treatment. Low potassium can be treated with potassium supplements and an increased intake of potassium enriched foods. So, maintain the level of potassium in your body and stay healthy. Some of the common symptoms of potassium deficiency are listed below.

• Fatigue
• Retarded bone growth
• Improper digestion
• Renal failure
• Hypertension
• Heart problems

Potassium can be obtained through a variety of fresh vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, peas, lima beans and potatoes and fruits such as bananas, citrus fruits, tomatoes, watermelons and strawberries. Beef, chicken and fish such as cod, salmon and sardine are also some rich sources of potassium. Normal, active adults should have about 3,500 milligrams of potassium daily for proper physiological functioning.