Under normal circumstances, your body will automatically control potassium levels in your blood.
Low potassium can have many causes that result in mild to severe symptoms.
This article discusses the symptoms, possible causes,diagnostic tests, andtreatment strategiesfor low potassium.
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It also covers when to seek medical treatment for your symptoms.
This could lead to lightheadedness or fainting.
Very low potassium can be dangerous and may cause the heart to stop.
Insufficient intake, excessive losses, or transcellular shifts can all lead to low potassium levels.
Diuretics treat many conditions, includinghigh blood pressure,congestive heart failure, andpulmonary edema.
Diuretics help remove excess fluid from the body and increase urine flow.
Potassium is also released through urine, so diuretics may sometimes cause too much potassium to leave the body.
Low potassium should not be self-treated and usually requires a medical test to determine severity.
Treatments for low potassium aim to increase potassium levels and patch up the underlying causes.
They include oral potassium supplements and intravenous (IV) potassium.
Your healthcare provider will determine which supplementation is appropriate for you based on your levels and medical history.
Hyperkalemia can cause serious symptoms as well.
Patients receiving IV potassium need to be closely monitored by their healthcare team.
Severe cases of low potassium can cause life-threatening heart failure,paralysis, andrespiratory failure.
If this is the case, contact your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing any symptoms.
Very low potassium can lead toheart failure, especially in those with underlying heart conditions.
Summary
Low potassium (hypokalemia) symptoms depend on the severity of your case.
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