The body requires potassium for its nerves and cells to function properly. People typically get the potassium they need from food and beverages. The kidneys maintain a proper balance of potassium in the system and remove excess potassium through urination, as necessary. Low potassium or hypokalemia, can be a a serious condition and should be discussed with a medical doctor, advises Mayoclinic.com.
Symptoms
A blood test typically detects low potassium. Normal potassium levels in the blood range from 3.6 to 4.8 milliequivalents per liter. According to the National Institutes of Health's Medline Plus, a mild drop in potassium doesn't cause symptoms, however, a large drop can be life threatening. Some symptoms of low potassium include weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and heart arrhythmia.
Causes
Low potassium has many causes and is commonly related to excessive losses of fluid from the digestive tract, via urine or vomit or sweat. Certain medications, such as diuretics or antibiotics, can cause hypokalemia. Diarrhea, excessive use of laxatives, bulimia or chronic kidney failure may also result in low potassium levels. Rarely is low potassium related to diet insufficiency, says MayoClinic.com
Treatment
The underlying cause of the low potassium determines the type of treatment. Mild hypokalemia may be treated with oral supplements or potassium-rich foods. Medication, as in the case of diuretics, may be changed to a kind that helps retain potassium in the body. People with more severe cases of hypokalemia may require potassium through a vein by way of intravenous drip.
Prevention
Consuming a diet rich in potassium may help prevent hypokalemia. Potassium-rich foods are common and widely available. Fruits such as bananas, dried and fresh apricots, citrus fruits, cantaloupe, avocado, kiwi and prunes are all significant sources of potassium. Broccoli, peas, tomatoes, unpeeled potatoes, sweet potatoes and winter squash are good sources of potassium. Animal products, like red meat, poultry and dairy, fish, nuts and soy products also provide potassium.
Exercise and Low Potassium
Athletes who exercise hard for extended periods may be prone to low potassium caused by losses from the muscles and, to a lesser extent, sweat. This may be reflected in muscle cramps and cardiovascular irregularities. Replenishing potassium stores, by eating potassium-rich foods one to two hours after physical activity, can prevent these symptoms, says Colorado State University Extension. A glass of orange juice or a banana, for example, may be sufficient.
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