Side Effects of Low Potassium

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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 electricity supply throughout the body. The standard amount of potassium which should be consumed by an 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 less intake of potassium but can happen due to the loss of potassium through urine or bowel motion. Some medications can also reduce the amount of potassium in the body and are one of the potassium deficiency causes. Diseases like diabetes and kidney disorders can also result in low potassium. These causes can be very dangerous if not taken care on 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 recognize 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.

Effect on 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 cause decrease in the touching sense. It may also cause confusions and finally end up with coma.

Effect on Heart
Missing of heart beat 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.

Effect on Lungs and Kidney
Lungs can face 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.

Effect on Other Functions of the Body
Apart from the above given body part, the rest of the functions of the body are also affected. Low potassium may cause some 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. If you are still not getting relief from these potassium rich foods, then consult a doctor immediately as he may ask you to take potassium supplements and will give you proper treatment.

I hope by now you have understood the side effects of low potassium. So, if you are observing 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.