Potassium is an important nutrient to many functions in the body. It is used as an electrolyte by the muscles and nerves to help control contractions necessary for muscle function. Potassium deficiencies are rare because your body's cells often store potassium and slowly release it as needed into the body. When potassium levels get out of balance one symptom may be nausea.
High Potassium Levels
In many cases, no symptoms develop in relation to high potassium levels in the body, a condition known as hyperkalemia. However, when there are symptoms, nausea is a typical one. Your nausea may also be accompanied by a slow or weakened pulse, and an irregular heartbeat may also develop. Hyperkalemia can accompany any of several serious conditions. Nausea can indicate dangerously high potassium levels and should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Low Potassium Levels
As with high potassium levels, most people don't initially develop symptoms when their body's potassium levels drop. You can easily suffer from low potassium without realizing it before your levels become more extreme. A few symptoms do usually develop, including fatigue, muscle aches, weakness and constipation, according to the Mayo Clinic, but nausea is not one of them.
Potassium Supplements
Potassium supplements can boost your body's potassium levels and can be used medicinally to reduce the risk of various medical conditions, such as stroke. But as with many supplements, the body and gastrointestinal system may respond poorly to these supplements. Initially you may experience several unwanted side effects, one of which can be nausea. You can reduce the risk of getting nauseous by taking the supplement with a meal.
Considerations
Nausea can be triggered by many conditions. It may be difficult to identify early on what the cause of your nausea may be, particularly if you suffer from symptoms suggesting several different problems. Do not assume you know the cause of your nausea. Rest the body and see if your condition improves. If other, more alarming symptoms of illness develop, such as rapid breathing or dizziness, call your doctor. Don't be afraid to consult your doctor if you are merely concerned about the nausea itself.
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