Potassium is an electrolyte, an electrically charged mineral that is essential for conducting electricity throughout the body. Nearly one in five people hospitalized in the U.S. have low potassium, states eMedicineHealth.com. Potassium, along with electrolytes such as sodium, calcium, chloride and magnesium, make nerve communication, muscle function, cardiac function as well as cell membrane development possible. Low levels of potassium in the body, or hypokalemia, may be asymptomatic for small potassium decreases, while a major drop can lead to serious medical consequences.
Muscle Cramping
A depletion of potassium may produce muscular discomfort in the form of spasms and muscle cramps, according to the National Library of Medicine. This can make moving difficult because of generalized muscle weakness. Additionally, you may find yourself waking up in the middle of the night with leg cramps. If you decide to see your doctor, Chemocare.com says that during the physical exam, your physician may find that your reflexes are slower.
Fatigue
Another symptom of potassium depletion is feeling excessively tired or fatigued, states the National Library of Medicine. Since your cells are not getting the needed potassium to maintain optimal functioning -- especially your nerve and muscle cells -- the metabolism of your body is disrupted. The consequence of this is that it takes extra effort for your body to perform everyday activities, which results in fatigue and low energy. If you experience significant changes in your energy and activity levels with unusual tiredness, speak with your doctor.
Intestinal Disturbance
If early signs of potassium depletion are not recognized and potassium levels continue to drop, another symptom that may occur, according to the Linus Pauling Institute, is intestinal paralysis, where intestinal activity slows down and eventually ceases. Associated symptoms include constipation, bloating and abdominal pain. Contact your doctor for an evaluation if you begin to experience these symptoms.
Cardiac Arrhythmias
Severe potassium depletion or hypokalemia can be life-threatening, states the University of Marilyn Medical Center. Such dangerously low levels of potassium may produce irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias, which can be assessed with an electrocardiogram -- a test that measures cardiac activity and heart functioning. Additionally, the National Library of Medicine says that muscular paralysis that includes the lungs can occur, which can be fatal when combined with cardiac dysfunction. Hypokalemia should be treated by a physician due to the potentially serious health complications that may occur.
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