What is low potassium level?

Hypokalemia (say "hy-po-kuh-LEE-mee-uh") is a low level of potassium. The heart, muscles, kidneys, and nervous system all need potassium to work well.

This problem has many different causes. Kidney problems, diet, and medicines like diuretics and laxatives can cause it. So can vomiting or diarrhea. In some cases, cancer is the cause. Your doctor may do tests to find the cause of your low potassium levels.

You may need medicines to bring your potassium levels back to normal. You may also need regular blood tests to check your potassium.

If you have very low potassium, you may need intravenous (I.V.) medicines. You also may need tests to check the electrical activity of your heart. Heart problems caused by low potassium levels can be very serious.

Symptoms of hypokalemia include muscle weakness or cramping. You may have nausea, diarrhea, frequent urination, confusion, and mood changes. It may feel like your heart is missing beats. You may pass out (lose consciousness). In severe cases, your heart may stop due to cardiac arrest.

If your doctor recommends it, you can eat foods that have a lot of potassium. These include bananas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, milk, and lentils. Your doctor may give you medicines, such as potassium and magnesium. These may be given in pills or through an I.V.

To diagnose hypokalemia, your doctor will examine you and ask about your health. You will have a blood test to check on your potassium levels.

• If your doctor recommends it, eat foods that have a lot of potassium. These include fresh fruits, juices, and vegetables. They also include nuts, beans, and milk.
• Be safe with medicines. If your doctor prescribes medicines or potassium supplements, take them exactly as directed. Call your doctor if you have any problems with your medicines.
• Get your potassium levels tested as often as your doctor tells you.

A potassium level that is too high or too low can be serious. It may cause symptoms such as muscle cramps or weakness, nausea, diarrhea, frequent urination, and dehydration. It may also cause low blood pressure, confusion, paralysis, and changes in heart rhythm. A blood or urine test can be done to find your potassium level.

Healthy kidneys keep the right amount of potassium in the blood. Your potassium level can be affected by many things, including how well your kidneys are working and certain medicines.

Hypokalemia may happen when the body loses large amounts of certain fluids. Severe vomiting or diarrhea can cause it. So can medicines like certain diuretics and some types of antibiotics. Certain kidney problems, alcohol use disorder, severe burns, and—in some cases—cancer treatments may be the cause.

Hypokalemia (say "hy-poh-kay-LEE-mee-uh") is a low level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is both an electrolyte and a mineral. It helps keep the right mix of fluids in your body. It also helps keep your heart beating normally and your nerves and muscles working as they should.