The body requires potassium for proper function of nerve and muscle cells. When levels become depleted, the condition is called hypokalemia. The kidneys regulate blood potassium levels, and kidney damage or disease can cause potassium levels to drop. Other causes include severe vomiting or diarrhea, excessive sweating and certain medications. A minor potassium deficiency does not typically cause symptoms, but as it worsens signs may become noticeable, according to Merck. In severe cases, hypokalemia can be fatal.
Abnormal Heart Rhythms
Because potassium is necessary for muscles to function properly, a deficiency can cause your heart rhythms to become abnormal, possibly leading to cardiac arrest, MedlinePlus reports. People who already have heart disease are most likely to suffer this effect. In babies, cardiac arrest can occur after severe vomiting and diarrhea causes potassium levels to drop dangerously low, the Hershey Medical Center at Penn State University reports.
Muscle Problems
When potassium levels are low, you may notice muscle problems such as twitching, weakness and cramping, according to Merck. In severe cases, muscles can become paralyzed or muscle fibers can begin to deteriorate or break down, a condition called rhabdomyolysis.
Changes in Bathroom Habits
In some cases, a low potassium level can cause noticeable constipation. Some people may also experience an increase in thirst, which can increase urine output, according to the Hershey Medical Center at Penn State University.
Fatigue
When potassium levels are low, you may notice unexplained generalized fatigue, according to MedlinePlus. Fatigue is a common sign of illnesses and other medical conditions and should not alone be taken as a sign of hypokalemia.
Mental Confusion
Severe potassium deficiencies may also cause mental confusion to set in, or other behavior changes may be noticeable, according to the Hershey Medical Center.
Lung Paralysis
Hypokalemia can cause the lungs to become paralyzed, Hershey Medical Center reports. However, lung paralysis is a sign of severe hypokalemia and does not develop early on in a potassium deficiency.
Discomfort
Some people with a low potassium level may notice some pain or discomfort, typically in the legs, according to Hershey Medical Center.
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