Potassium is an electrolyte required in the body for proper function of nerve and muscle cells. Potassium also helps regulate the heart. The only way potassium can be acquired is through the diet. Some potassium-rich foods include bananas, tomatoes, spinach, potatoes, oranges, peas and beans. Most of the potassium in the body is stored in body cells and organs, but a small quantity is found in the blood. Low potassium in the blood is a condition referred to as hypokalemia.
Diagnosis
In normal circumstances, blood potassium levels range from 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L of blood. Hypokalemia is defined by the Milton S. Hershey Center as a blood potassium level below 3.5 mEq/L of blood. Hypokalemia is diagnosed by measuring the levels of potassium in the blood through a blood test. Urine tests may also be used to detect hypokalemia.
Causes
The kidneys are responsible for maintaining the level of potassium in the blood. As potassium enters the body through diet, the kidneys will excrete matching amounts in urine. Low potassium in the blood most often occurs as a result of an underlying condition or substance that causes the kidneys to excrete potassium even when it is not replenished by the body. Excess potassium excretion can be caused by diuretic use, chronic diarrhea, excessive vomiting, eating disorders, overuse of laxatives and kidney failure, according to MayoClinic.com. In rare cases, low potassium in the blood may be caused by an inadequate intake of potassium in the diet.
Symptoms
Mild hypokalemia does not usually cause any symptoms. When the condition progresses, it can result in abnormal heartbeat, breakdown of muscle fibers, constipation, muscle weakness, fatigue and muscle spasms.
Treatment
Oral potassium supplements can usually correct mild cases of hypokalemia. Increasing potassium intake in the diet and drinking electrolyte-containing fluids can also help correct mild cases of hypokalemia. More severe cases may require intravenous potassium supplementation. The Milton S. Hershey Center notes that people who regularly use diuretics or take medications that interfere with potassium should have blood potassium levels checked regularly.
Complications
If left untreated, hypokalemia can lead to paralysis that includes the lungs and can be life-threatening. Hypokalemia can also lead to dangerous irregular heartbeat and kidney damage.
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