Side Effects of Low Potassium

Like any other mineral, potassium is also an essential requirement of our body. It is one of the most important electrolyte which is responsible for the electric supply throughout the body. The standard amount of potassium which should be consumed by an adult is 4,700 mg/day. Any amount more than or less than the standard value can be dangerous for health. Side effects of low potassium can even lead you to life-threatening consequences. Low potassium is known as hypokalemia or potassium deficiency.

Causes of Low Potassium

Hypokalemia is described as the deficiency of potassium in the body. It is not usually caused due to the inadequate intake of potassium but can also happen due to the loss of potassium through urine or bowel movement. Loss of fluid from the body due to sweating, excessive vomiting or diarrhea may cause hypokalemia. Some medications can also be considered responsible for reducing the amount of potassium in the body. Diseases like diabetes, kidney disorders, Aldosteronism, or Cushing's syndrome, etc., may also result in low potassium. These causes can be very dangerous if not taken care of in time.

Side Effects of Low Potassium

As potassium is an essential element of our body the side effects of low potassium can be severe too. In the early stages, the effects of low potassium are very mild and difficult to observe hence mostly they are left untreated. But in the later stages it becomes severe and difficult to cure. Hence it becomes very important to get the effects treated in the early stages itself. Following are some of the side effects of low potassium.

⚫ Muscles and Nerves
Drop in the potassium level can result in muscles spasm, cramps, etc. The weakening of muscles may even result in paralysis. Effects on nervous system may affect the sense to touch. It may also cause confusions and may even take the person into coma.

⚫ Heart
Skipping of heartbeats is one of the most dangerous low potassium side effects. Irregular or weak pulse rate, abnormal contraction of heart, inability of pumping blood to the other parts of the body, etc. are some of the side effects on heart. This may also be linked to sudden drop of blood pressure which may cause dizziness and nausea.

⚫ Lungs and Kidney
Lungs can face the problem in taking sufficient amount of oxygen and supplying it to various parts of the body. This may result in fatigue as there is an inadequate amount of oxygen supply. Kidney can also be affected from low potassium and it may take to permanent scarring of the kidney.

⚫ Bones
Potassium plays a very important role in resorption of bone. Low potassium levels may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. The person suffering from osteoporosis is prone to fractures.

⚫ Other Functions of the Body
Low potassium may cause skin problems like dryness, blistering and eruptions of the skin. Diarrhea and other digestive problems, temporary memory loss, abdominal detention, vomiting, gastrointestinal problems, etc., are some of the other effects of hypokalemia.

Treatment for Low Potassium

The best treatment is to follow the potassium rich diet everyday, so as to avoid the conditions of low potassium. Fresh fruits and vegetables can help you to cope up from the potassium deficiency state. Avocados, lima beans, bananas, tomatoes, etc. are included in the list of food high in potassium which can maintain your potassium level in the body. Chicken and salmon are a good source of potassium for the non vegetarians. Apple cider vinegar is also known for its potassium rich content. Avoid alcohol and products containing caffeine, as they contribute to the electrolyte disturbance of the body. If you still observe the symptoms of low potassium, then consult a doctor immediately.

I hope by now you have understood the side effects of low potassium. So, if you observe any of its side effects, then start taking potassium rich diet and consult a doctor. It is better to cure it in the initial stage, so as to avoid complications in the future.