Low potassium, medically termed hypokalemia, occurs when potassium levels in the blood are low. Since potassium is an essential nutrient that aids the nerves, muscle cells and heart, a low potassium level can cause severe complications such as muscle cramps, irregular heartbeats, weakness and even paralysis, according to MayoClinic.com. Cures depend upon the cause of low potassium.
Changing Medications
Certain medications can lead to low levels of potassium. Antibiotics and diuretics are among the types of drugs that may lower potassium levels in the blood. If medications are the problem, a doctor can prescribe different drugs to cure hypokalemia.
Potassium Supplements
In rare cases, deficiencies in the diet cause hypokalemia. If the condition is mild, potassium supplements may cure low potassium levels. Severe hypokalemia might require intravenous potassium, according to MedlinePlus. Once potassium levels are stable, maintaining a diet rich in potassium may prevent hypokalemia. Foods such as bananas, milk, peanut butter and granola are high in potassium.
Treating Underlying Conditions
Underlying health conditions can cause potassium levels to become lower than normal. Numerous conditions such as diarrhea and excessive vomiting -- as might occur with eating disorders -- can cause your body to lose potassium through the digestive tract or through urination. In these cases, curing hypokalemia is done by treating underlying conditions.
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