Potassium is one of the important minerals and electrolytes needed by the body, as discussed on MedlinePlus, a website supported by the National Institutes of Health. Potassium is involved in tissue and cellular functions. This mineral has various roles in the body: it influences metabolism, assists in acid-base regulation, builds muscles and supports normal growth as well as maintains the normal electrical activity of the heart. Natural sources of potassium include red meat, fish, chicken, soy products, milk, bananas and citrus fruits. Depleted supplies of potassium can result in serious symptoms.
Abnormal Heart Rhythms
According to MedlinePlus, one of the possible symptoms of potassium depletion is an abnormal heart rhythm, or dysrhythmia. The normal range of potassium in the blood is 3.7 to 5.2 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). The condition in which potassium levels go below 3.7 mEq/L is called hypokalemia. Potassium is one of the essential minerals that help the heart to beat regularly. Small drops in potassium usually do not cause any symptoms, but excessive depletion can affect heart rhythm and function. Dysrhythmias occur when the heart works harder or slower than normal to pump blood out to the body. Dysrhythmias manifest as an irregular, too slow or too fast heart rhythm or pulse rate.
Muscle Fiber Breakdown
Muscle fiber breakdown, or rhabdomyolysis, occurs as result of severe potassium depletion. Rhabdomyolysis is a painful and acute condition which results in the release of myoglobin, muscle fiber content, into the blood stream, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Myoglobin in the blood stream may block the structures of the kidneys and cause kidney failure. Potassium is needed by the muscles for growth and repair. Potassium also influences muscle contractions.
Constipation
According to MayoClinic.com, constipation is one of the possible symptoms of potassium depletion. Constipated patients have three or less bowel movements in a week, with stools appearing hard and dry, making passage difficult and uncomfortable. Potassium helps with the digestive tract's smooth muscle contractions, or peristalsis; the colon's contraction and movement of food is impeded when potassium levels are too low or too high.
Fatigue
Fatigue may occur as a symptom of potassium depletion, notes MedlinePlus. Electrical condution in the brain -- in which potassium plays a major role -- is affected in patients experiencing a decline in potassium supply. Potassium also helps oxygenate the brain, which supports proper cognitive function, clarity of mind and proper stress management.
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