Electrolytes are essential for function of all the cells in your body. Low levels of potassium can cause neuromuscular problems that can manifest in a variety of ways. Potassium deficiencies may be involved in a condition known as periodic limb movement disorder, but there is no definitive scientific link between the two conditions. Your doctor can help you decide whether you might want to take potassium supplements to prevent periodic limb movement disorder.
Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
Periodic limb movement disorder is also known as nocturnal myoclonus. This condition is marked by repetitive movements of the limbs while sleeping that disrupt your sleep. Typically, the lower limbs are affected, and the characteristic movement is big toe extension combined with flexion of the ankle, knee and hip. This condition can be caused by underlying sleep problems or neurological diseases, and it is related to restless legs syndrome.
Potassium
Potassium is an electrolyte that is very important for muscle and nerve function. Changes in potassium levels can be used to generate the electrical currents that these tissues need to function. A lack of potassium, also known as hypokalemia, can cause a variety of muscle problems, including fatigue, cramping and weakness. Hypokalemia is usually diagnosed using a blood test, and is usually caused by excessive loss of potassium through urine, diarrhea, vomit and sweat.
Potassium and Limb Disorders
Because of potassium's importance in regulating the way your muscles and nerves work, potassium levels can potentially contribute to periodic limb movement disorder. According to The Sleep Connection, people with periodic limb movement disorders are more likely to have imbalances of electrolytes such as potassium. Potassium supplements may also be useful for treating periodic limb movement disorder, Lancaster Sleep hypothesizes. However, there are no scientific studies that have clearly linked periodic limb movement disorder to a lack of potassium, so it is impossible to conclusively say whether this neurological problem is caused by a potassium deficiency.
Considerations
A lack of potassium may be a factor in periodic limb movement disorder, but you should talk to your doctor before taking potassium supplements. Too much potassium in your body can cause serious health problems, and a chronic lack of potassium may be a sign of some other underlying disorder, such as kidney disease. Some medications used to treat Parkinson's disease may be more effective than potassium supplements.
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