Low potassium treatment depends on the potassium deficiency. Normal blood potassium levels are 3.6 to 4.8 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L), according to MayoClinic.com. Severely low levels can be life-threatening, requiring hospitalization. If levels are mildly low, diet and potassium supplements can increase levels. If you suspect you have low potassium, consult with your health-care provider immediately.
Treatment With Diet
Symptoms of mildly low potassium levels are fatigue and weakness. Blood levels may be a low to normal range, or slightly below 3.6 mEq/L. Symptoms may be subtle and not initially associated with low potassium levels. However, diet control can raise potassium levels, provided there is not an underlying health condition depleting the potassium. Adults need 2,000mg, or 51 mEq, a day. One papaya contains the highest amount, with 781mg. One cup of prune juice contains 707mg, and a banana has 467mg.
Chronically Low Potassium
Diuretics are prescribed to certain patients to relieve fluid and edema around the heart and lungs. Some diuretics excrete potassium with the fluid in the urine. As a result, such people are at risk for low potassium levels. Health-care providers typically will prescribe potassium supplements with diuretics. This will reduce weakness and fatigue. Potassium supplements range in dosages from 20 to 100 mEq per pill. A diet with potassium-rich foods is also advised.
Severely Low Potassium Levels
Very low potassium levels can be life-threatening. Potassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte for heart and nerve function. Without proper amounts, the heart can have an irregular beat and potentially cause a heart attack. Emergency medical treatment requires hospitalization to replenish potassium levels. This is done by administering fluid containing potassium into a vein intravenously. Blood draws are done at least once a day to make sure levels are increasing. Severely low levels can be the result of a more serious health condition requiring additional testing.
Replenish With Fluids
It is important to replenish fluids when working out. Athletes lose potassium from muscles during exercise. A small amount is lost in sweat. Low potassium levels may occur with cramping during a workout. Drinking fluids with potassium, such as orange juice, is recommended withing two hours of a workout, according to Colorado State University. Specifically, 1 cup of orange juice will replace the potassium lost in a two-hour workout.
Member Comments