Your body needs a specific amount of certain minerals, also known as electrolytes, to function properly. One important electrolyte is potassium, which is critical for the function of many tissues in the body. In some cases, unusually low levels of potassium in the blood, also known as hypokalemia, may be coupled with another condition, known as edema, which is caused by the accumulation of fluid in spaces in the body.
Muscle Dysfunction
Potassium is critical for the function of muscles. In order for muscle cells to contract, they need to be able to regulate the electrical charge of the cell, since small changes in this charge control muscle contraction. Potassium is a key part of this system because of its abundance and the fact that it is a positively charged molecule. Consequently, if your potassium levels get too low you may experience muscle weakness, cramping or paralysis, because your muscles will not function as efficiently.
Arrythmia
Because the heart is essentially one large muscle, low potassium levels can also result in an irregular heartbeat, also known as arrythmia. This is especially common if you already have heart disease. Although an irregular heartbeat will often go away once potassium levels are brought back up to normal levels, a severely irregular heartbeat can cause cardiac arrest.
Increased Urine Output
Unusually low levels of potassium can also cause increased urine output. This can also cause increased thirst, due to dehydration.
Swelling
Edema is a type of swelling that is caused by fluid becoming trapped in the body. Edema typically affects the legs and feet, though it can occur anywhere in the body. Edema can cause the skin over the swollen part of the body to look shiny and stretched, and the affected area may, in response to mild pressure, have a visible dimple for several seconds.
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