10 Signs and Symptoms of Potassium Deficiency (Hypokalemia)

Written by Resurchify | Updated on: April 20, 2022

Potassium is a vital mineral that serves a variety of functions in our bodies.

It is mostly obtained by our bodies through our foods. Its primary roles are as follows:

Controlling muscular contractions
Nerve signals are used to control fluids.

Small variations in potassium levels can have a big impact on our bodies. Potassium maintains electrical activity in our bodies' cells. When this level drops, it impacts the cells with high electrical activity, like nerves, muscles, and the cardiovascular system. Hyperkalemia, or an excess of potassium, can result in weakness, weariness, loss of muscular function, and a slower pulse. Hypokalemia, or a lack of potassium, can induce muscular weakness, twitches, heart palpitations, cramps, and paralysis and respiratory failure. Potassium deficiency is defined by potassium levels that are less than 3.6 mmol/liter. Potassium shortage, also known as hypokalemia, is an illness in which a person's body does not get adequate potassium. It might be a result of a poor diet or as a result of diarrhea or vomiting. Hypokalemia, a medical condition caused by a potassium deficit, can occur concurrently with some disorders or as a result of using water tablets to treat high blood pressure. It can also cause medical problems such as high blood pressure, constipation, muscular weakness, and weariness. Many drugs, including diuretics, laxatives, and steroids, can also induce potassium deficiency. If you are on any of these drugs, you should get your potassium levels tested regularly.

Potassium is a mineral that your body needs to function correctly. It allows muscles to move, cells to get nutrients, and nerves to convey impulses. It's extremely vital for your heart's cells. Potassium, an electrolyte, is also beneficial to digestive and bone health.

Because potassium is found in so many foods, it is difficult to develop a deficit caused by insufficient dietary consumption. However, keep in mind that the body eliminates potassium through urine and sweating every day. So, whether you live in a hot area, frequent steam chambers or hot yoga centers, or participate in vigorous activity daily, it's critical to ensure that your body has an appropriate amount of potassium. Even a slight decrease in potassium levels might cause salt sensitivities and hypertension. Potassium deficiency levels also increase the risk of bone loss; eating enough potassium helps to preserve bone mineral density.

The following are ten causes of Hypokalemia

The Intake of Alcohol is Enormous

Multiple organ systems can be affected by alcohol use. As a result, clinical manifestations related to excessive alcohol consumption vary and may include one or more of the following: Physical trauma, hypertension, neurological diseases, elevated liver enzymes, bone marrow suppression, etc. Almost half of all individuals admitted to hospital for alcoholism have hypokalemia in common. Hypokalemia in alcoholism is frequently caused by a combination of factors, including insufficient potassium intake, alcoholic ketoacidosis, and improper failures due to hypomagnesemia.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition in which normal kidney function is lost. People who have diabetes or high blood pressure are at an increased risk of developing CKD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this illness affects 15% of individuals in the United States. CKD might worsen with time, but it is possible to control it by living a healthy lifestyle and receiving effective medication for any underlying diseases. If CKD does not recover, it might cause renal damage, which can impair the kidneys' ability to control potassium. People with advanced CKD may need a kidney transplant or dialysis. Under normal circumstances, the kidneys react to hormones in the system to keep the body's potassium levels normal. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the normal quantity of potassium in the blood varies from 3.6 to 5.0 millimoles per liter. Dependable source Hypokalemia is uncommon. However, it can occur in people who have a low potassium intake, gastrointestinal or urinary potassium loss, diarrhea, or who use diuretics. Chronic renal illness makes it harder for the kidneys to work effectively, which can lead to issues with nutritional levels in the body, such as potassium. A potassium imbalance in the body can lead to difficulties with the muscles and the heart. People with CKD should have regular checks with their doctor and a nutritionist to regulate their potassium amounts and properly care for their health.

Diabetes Ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, is a development of acids in the body, or you can say blood, to be specific. It can happen if your blood sugar levels are high for an extended period. DKA is a significant diabetic condition that can be deadly, although it usually takes several hours to get that serious. It is treatable and preventable.

The disease occurs when your body is unable to create enough insulin. Insulin usually plays a key role in assisting sugar (glucose)—the main source of energy for one's muscles and other tissues—to enter your cells. When you don't have enough insulin, your body starts breaking down fat for fuel. If left untreated, this process leads to a buildup of acids in the circulation known as ketones, which can progress to diabetic ketoacidosis. DKA is a well-known form of hypokalemia produced by osmotic diuresis, resulting in a 3 to 6 mEq/kg total body potassium shortage. Potassium levels are often "normal" at presentation because of the extracellular shift of potassium (K+) caused by insulin insufficiency and acidosis. Controlling your blood sugar levels will help you prevent ketoacidosis in the long term. Maintain control of your diabetes with food, exercise, medicines, and self-care.

Hyperaldosteronism

Aldosterone regulates blood pressure by retaining salt and removing potassium from the circulation. The extra salt boosts blood pressure. Hyperaldosteronism is a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, resulting in hypertension (high blood pressure) and low potassium levels in the blood. Primary hyperaldosteronism can be caused by hyperactivity in either one or both adrenal glands (unilateral illness) (bilateral disease). Unilateral illness is often induced by an aldosterone-producing adenoma (benign tumor), with adrenal cancer or hyperplasia occurring less frequently (when the whole gland is hyperactive). Bilateral hyperplasia is the most common cause of bilateral illness (when both glands are hyperactive). There are uncommon hereditary diseases that can cause both glands to be overactive, such as familial hyperaldosteronism types I and II. Hyperaldosteronism is frequently diagnosed only by high blood pressure. Hypertension is often difficult to manage, and patients are frequently on 4 or more blood pressure drugs. Headaches, blurred vision, and nausea can all be symptoms of hypertension. While some hyperaldosteronism individuals have average potassium levels, many others have potassium deficiency levels. Hypokalemia (low potassium level) can induce weariness, numbness, increased urination, thirst, muscular cramps, and muscle weakness. Hyperaldosteronism increases the risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, renal failure, and premature mortality.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common issue characterized by loose, watery, and potentially more frequent bowel motions. It can occur on its own or in conjunction with other problems such as nausea, puking, stomach discomfort, or weight loss.

Thankfully, diarrhea is typically just temporary, enduring only a few days. However, suppose diarrhea persists for more than a few days or weeks. In that case, it typically signals the presence of another condition, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or a more serious disorder, such as chronic infection, celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Diarrhea can result in dehydration, which can be fatal if left untreated. Dehydration is especially deadly for children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Potassium is one of the essential nutrients which is required for your body. It is possible to lose a substantial amount of it through diarrhea. You may feel weak if you don't get enough potassium. When you have diarrhea, consume potassium-rich foods such as ripe bananas, apricot or peach nectar, potatoes, seafood, and meat. An intracellular potassium shift can potentially result in severe hypokalemia.

Laxatives and Diuretics

Due to increased urine, around 80% of diuretic users develop a potassium shortage. Patients with excessive blood pressure, heart failure, or renal illness may be administered diuretics, sometimes known as "water pills." The most prevalent cause of hypokalemia is diuretics.

Laxatives can induce potassium loss in the stool. They assist your body remove salt and water via your urine, which lowers your blood pressure. Abuse of laxatives might result in hypokalemia and volume depletion. Rhabdomyolysis can result from hypokalemia. Laxative-induced hypokalemia and volume depletion had previously been known to produce renal insufficiency, but not to the extent that hemodialysis is required. Individuals having long-term AN-P who misuse diuretics or laxatives are continually in danger of chronic potassium shortage, either due to direct renal and/or external potassium loss.

Sweating Excessively

Almost 90% of the potassium in your system is located in cells (in biological fluids such as plasma, blood, and perspiration), with the remainder deposited in bones. Potassium is mostly controlled by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. When you sweat, though, you lose potassium. Higher sweating equals more potassium loss. Athletes should be especially mindful of their potassium intake since potassium is required for muscle and nerve contraction. The frequency and extent to which your muscles contract is greatly influenced by the quantity of potassium in your body. When your neural and muscular systems are weakened due to a lack of potassium in your diet or a blockage in the transport of potassium through the body, your nervous and muscular systems can suffer. A suitable quantity of potassium is required to keep your muscular system operating normally, so be sure you're receiving enough. The appropriate intake for potassium is 2,600 mg for women and 3,400 mg for males per day. Since potassium is lost via perspiration and urine daily, you must eat potassium-rich meals regularly to refill. Athletes must be especially careful since they lose more potassium via perspiration. Low potassium levels might diminish your strength and endurance. A recent Australian study of highly trained athletes found that drinking a caffeinated drink soon before exercise can aid to maintain proper potassium levels in your blood and postpone exhaustion during your workout.

A lack of Folic Acid

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin found in spinach, kale, chard, sprouts, zucchini, soybeans, asparagus, bananas, tomatoes, avocados, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, bananas, and citrus fruits and liquids. Shellfish, kidneys, and liver all contain folic acid. The average daily folic acid requirement is 200–400 g. Because folic acid is not retained in the body's fat cells, its blood levels may drop after only a few weeks of consuming a low-vegetable-and-fruit diet. Mild folic acid deficiency is normally asymptomatic, but tongue discomfort, diarrhea, headaches, weakness, forgetfulness, and weariness can occur in more severe cases. Megaloblastic anemia, fetal neurological abnormalities, and a higher likelihood of breast, pancreatic, and colon cancer can all be caused by a lack of folic acid. It's also been related to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Serum folic acid assays are commonly requested in the evaluation of anemia, Alzheimer's, and altered mental state. Folic acid deficiency is prevalent in many regions of the world and is affected by nutritional status, dietary choices, and alcohol usage. The majority of folic acid sources are also high in potassium. Although folic acid deficiency can occur in people with diseases that affect permeability in the gastrointestinal tract (such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease), as well as those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol, consistently consume overcooked vegetables, or use certain medications (such as sulfasalazine, phenytoin, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole), the major cause of folic acid deficiency is still due to low diet in vegetables and fruits rich in folic acid.

Primary Hyperaldosteronism

Primary aldosteronism occurs when the adrenal glands create an abnormally high amount of the steroid hormone aldosterone, which particularly regulates salt and potassium excretion. Adrenal glands are two little triangular glands located on top of each kidney. This disorder, also known as Conn's syndrome, is caused by an excess of aldosterone produced by one or both adrenal glands. Overproduction of aldosterone can be caused by both glands, noncancerous tumors in one adrenal gland, or, in rare cases, malignant tumors. High blood pressure and low potassium levels in the body are typical symptoms of primary aldosteronism. High blood pressure, if uncontrolled, increases the risk of problems such as heart attack and stroke, whereas low potassium can induce cardiac rhythm disturbances. Primary aldosteronism can affect anyone. However, if you already have low blood potassium levels, it is more likely to be present (hypokalemia). High blood pressure begins before the age of 30 and takes three or more drugs to control. Adrenal hypertrophy Primary aldosteronism is diagnosed by monitoring the levels of hormones such as aldosterone and renin and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium in individuals with high blood pressure. Electrolytes are minerals that aid in the equilibrium of water in your body.

Gitelman's Disease

The Gitelman syndrome is a kidney disease characterized by an unbalance of charged atoms (ions) in the system, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium ions. Renal potassium wasting, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, hypocalciuria, hypomagnesemia, and hyperreninemic hyperaldosteronism are all symptoms.

Gitelman syndrome symptoms often arise in late childhood or early adolescence. This illness is characterized by severe muscular spasms (tetany), muscle cramps or discomfort, disorientation, and salt cravings. A tickling or prickly sensation in the body (paresthesias) is also frequent, usually affecting the face. Gitelman syndrome is characterized by severe weariness (fatigue), low blood pressure, and a terrible joint ailment is known as chondrocalcinosis. According to research, Gitelman syndrome also may raise the chance of ventricular arrhythmia, a potentially hazardous irregular heart rhythm.

The indications and indications of Gitelman syndrome vary greatly, even among members of the same family who are affected. The majority of persons with this syndrome have very modest symptoms, while cases of severe muscular cramping, paralysis, and poor development have been described.

Symptoms of Shortage of Potassium

Potassium shortage symptoms are not usually obvious. A regular blood test can reveal the potassium levels in your body. However, some signs of potassium insufficiency are listed below.

Weakness, tiredness, and cramping in the muscles and legs that may culminate in complete immobility
Tingling or numbness throughout the body
Vomiting and nausea
Constipation, bloating, and abdominal cramps
Excessive urination and a strong need to drink water
Palpitations in the heart
Fainting can occur as a result of extremely low blood pressure.
Depression, hallucinations, or delusions.

Appropriate potassium intake

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 3,510 milligrams (mg) of potassium per day for adults, whereas the NIHTrusted Source recommends 2,600 mg for females and 3,400 mg for males.

People with CKD may want to avoid or limit their use of potassium-rich foods. Doctors may prescribe a potassium-restricted meal of around 2,000 mg per day for those with moderate-to-severe CKD. A dietician can provide advice on the appropriate degree of restriction.

Because several foods have high quantities of potassium, some people with CKD may find it difficult to plan meals. However, there is a technique known as leaching that can reduce the quantity of potassium in some meals and keep you from being dehydrated and hyperkalemia. Individuals can leach vegetables by chopping them and soaking them in warm unsalted water for a few hours. The veggies can then be washed in warm water once the water has been drained. One should use unsalted water if one wants to cook the veggies. If an individual with chronic renal disease decides to have a potassium-rich meal, it is critical to limit the serving size.

Limiting potassium consumption helps persons with CKD reduce their risk of disease progression.

Bottom Line

Potassium may be present in a wide range of foods. Bananas are well-known for their potassium content and are regularly distributed after sporting activities to aid with muscle regeneration. Fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus and melons and leafy greens like broccoli, are high in potassium. The mineral may also be found in fish, most meats, and dairy. Potassium-rich foods include sweet potatoes and legumes such as lima and kidney beans. Sports drinks, on the other hand, are often low in potassium. If you don't receive enough potassium, your body will let you know. If you've been having muscular cramps or excessive thirst, you should get your potassium levels evaluated.

Hypokalemia can be managed. Typically, treatment entails addressing the underlying disease. The majority of people learn to regulate their potassium levels by diet or supplementation. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you are experiencing hypokalemia symptoms. Early identification and treatment can help prevent the illness from progressing to immobility or paralysis, respiratory failure, or cardiac issues.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

What medications might result in low potassium levels?

Some diuretics, often known as water pills, lower potassium levels in the blood. Diuretics are often used to treat hypertension (hypertension). They assist your body remove salt and water via your urine, which lowers your blood pressure.

Does constipation affect potassium levels?

Yes, it affects your potassium levels. Constipation is a typical issue for those on a renal diet. It can impair your ability to dialyze or raise your potassium levels, causing you to feel ill in general.

Is it possible that a low potassium level might produce diarrhea?

Severe potassium loss from the digestive system can also be caused by vomiting, diarrhea, or both. Poor potassium can frequently be caused by a lack of potassium in your dietary habit.

Which of the following is the most prevalent cause of diabetic ketoacidosis?

The consequences of absolute or relative insulin insufficiency include dehydration, hyperglycemia, and acidosis-producing derangements in intermediate metabolism. An underlying infection, a disturbance in insulin administration, and the emergence of diabetes for the very first time are the most typical reasons.

Is it possible to treat ketoacidosis?

It can happen if your blood sugar is too high for an extended time. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a dangerous diabetic condition that can be deadly, even though it generally takes many hours to get that critical. It is treatable and preventable.

What happens if you have a blood sugar level of 500?

You might develop a dangerous condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis (or DKA). This is more common in patients with Type 1 diabetes as well as those with blood glucose levels above 500. When you have DKA, your body produces a lot of acid due to molecules called ketones. You can become severely ill as a result of the acid and high sugar levels.

What are the signs and symptoms of Gitelman's syndrome?

This illness is characterized by severe muscular spasms (tetany), muscle pain or cramping, disorientation, and salt cravings. A tingly or stinging feeling in the skin (paresthesias) is also frequent, usually affecting the face.

Is hypokalemia caused by hyperaldosteronism?

Hypokalemia, or potassium deficiency levels in the blood, is another major sign of hyperaldosteronism. While mild hypokalemia may not usually result in symptoms, it might produce weariness. cramping in the muscles

What effect might hyperaldosteronism have on potassium levels?

Hyperaldosteronism is a disorder in which one or both of the adrenal glands generate an abnormally high level of the hormone aldosterone. This might induce a drop in potassium levels, which can lead to weakness and muscular spasms.

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