Electrolytes, including potassium, are charged particles in body fluids that help transmit electrical impulses for proper nerve, heart and muscle function. A low potassium level, a condition known as hypokalemia, can be life-threatening and may require treatment with potassium chloride.
Physiology
Potassium levels are regulated primarily through re-absorption and excretion in the kidneys. The normal concentration of potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 milliequivalents per liter, or mEq/L. A level below 3.5 mEq/L is considered to be hypokalemia. A common reason for low potassium levels is the use of diuretic medications with inadequate potassium replacement. Other causes may include insufficient intake of potassium or intestinal fluid loss from severe, prolonged vomiting and diarrhea.
Symptoms
As noted in a 2006 article in the journal "Patient Care," published by ModernMedicine, mild hypokalemia, defined as a potassium level of 3.0 to 3.5 mEq/L, may not cause any symptoms. Potassium levels from 2.5 to 3.0 mEq/L may cause constipation and weakness. Levels less than 2.5 mEq/L may cause muscle wasting, and levels less than 2.0 mEq/L can cause muscle paralysis and subsequent respiratory failure. Decreased potassium levels cause cardiac muscle irritability, increasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, which can lead to death.
Potassium Chloride
Potassium chloride is the primary charged particle inside the body's cells, and potassium chloride mineral supplements are used to treat hypokalemia. Potassium levels must be maintained within the normal range to avoid electrical disruptions in nerves and muscle functioning.
Treatment
Treatment for potassium deficiency will vary depending on the severity of imbalance. In very mild cases, the individual may simply need to increase his intake of dietary potassium. If that isn't enough, potassium chloride may be required. Except in life-threatening situations, potassium should be replaced slowly. In some cases of hypokalemia, potassium chloride replacement can be achieved with oral capsules, liquids or powder supplements. Oral potassium should be administered with food or juice to prevent gastric upset. For more severe cases of hypokalemia, potassium is given through an intravenous infusion. If you are receiving intravenous potassium, you will be placed on a heart monitor to watch for abnormal heart rhythms.
References
- "Fluids and Electrolytes DeMystified"; J. Johnson; 2008
- "RN"; Resorting Electrolytes; Sonia Astle; May 2005
- "Patient Care"; Life-Threatening Electrolyte Abnormalities; W. Miller., M. Graham.; December 2006
Member Comments