1. Kidney Problems
Potassium plays a crucial role in balancing the water levels of the body. When there's too little of this mineral in your system--below 3.5 milliequivalent per liter (mEq/L)--your body will begin to show signs of deficiency. In most people, these symptoms are quite mild and unclear, and are often mistaken for something else entirely. They should, however, be taken seriously. Once potassium levels get too low, you may begin to experience heavy urination as the kidneys become unable to work properly. Due to the significant loss of fluids, a low potassium level is typically accompanied by an extreme sensation of thirst. This condition may be corrected by eating foods high in potassium, but a medical consultation is recommended.
2. Muscle Spasms and Paralysis
Potassium is also a vital mineral for other bodily functions, including the muscular system. If potassium levels get too low, you may begin to experience numbness or a tingling sensation in your outer extremities. Often this symptom is accompanied by a spasm or cramping of the muscles in either the legs or the arms. When left untreated, people may also suffer a temporary paralysis, a startling consequence for something that can be remedied with proper diet.
3. Gastrointestinal Tract
Probably one of the most mistaken symptoms associated with low potassium involves the gastrointestinal tract. As potassium levels drop below the appropriate level, you may experience nausea or vomiting as well as bloating or abdominal cramping. You may also begin to suffer from constipation. This is a sign that your intestines may have become, to some extent, paralyzed due to a decrease in muscular contractions.
4. Psychological Effects
A surprising symptom of low potassium levels is the effect on the mind. People have, on occasion, experienced unusual psychological behaviors, including confusion, depression and even psychosis. In some cases, people see hallucinations or hear things that are not there.
5. Heart Complications
Low levels of potassium in the body may also result in dangerous complications with the heart. You may begin to experience faintness due to low blood pressure. You may also experience heart palpitations and abnormal heart rhythms. Sometimes it might even cause the heart to stop. Once potassium levels reach an extremely low level, you may need to be hospitalized and given potassium intravenously.
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