Diabetes is a medical condition characterized by unusually high levels of sugar in the blood. If you have diabetes and are unable to properly control your blood sugar levels, you may develop a serious medical complication called diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when your body uses fat as a source of energy rather than glucose or sugar. Excessive fat metabolism causes acidic substances called ketones to accumulate in your blood. In an effort to remove these toxic substances from your body, your kidneys begin producing more urine. Increased urination may result in the loss of potassium, which can lead to a potassium deficiency if you have uncontrolled diabetes.
Heart Rate Abonormalities
Your muscles require adequate amounts of potassium in order to contract and relax. If you develop a potassium deficiency, your heart muscle may contract irregularly leading to a side effect called arrhythmias, MayoClinic.com explains. Severe heart rate irregularities may cause life-threatening medical complications include respiratory distress or cardiac arrest. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any heart-related complications to ensure you receive prompt and appropriate care.
Muscle Cramps
In addition to your cardiac muscle, the muscles throughout your body may contract irregularly if you develop hypokalemia due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Sporadic muscle contractions may cause painful or uncomfortable cramping. You may also experience muscle limpness, which can limit your ability to voluntarily control your muscle movements, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center reports. If you experience severe muscle cramps or paralysis, seek care from your primary medical provider.
Fatigue and Weakness
In the absence of appropriate potassium levels, your body may have difficult generating the energy you need to function normally. Consequently, you may experience unusual fatigue or weakness, which can limit your ability to complete normal daily tasks associated with work or school. Low potassium levels may also contribute to confusion and may negatively affect your level of concentration. Talk with your physician if you experience sudden or severe muscle weakness, as this side effect of a potassium deficiency may also be a sign of alternate health problems, such as a stroke.
Constipation
Constipation may occur as a side effect of low potassium levels if you have uncontrolled diabetes. Infrequent or absent bowel movements may be uncomfortable and may contribute to side effects of abdominal bloating, cramping or pain. Seek care from your doctor if constipation persists for more than a few days.
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