Low Potassium Symptoms
A Quick Review Of Low Potassium Symptoms
Potassium is an element essential to life, and when present in insufficient quantities, will give rise to certain low potassium symptoms which may require attention. Potassium is abundant, the 7th most abundant element on earth. Yet it is seldom seen in its pure form, due to its rapid oxidation in air, and its violent reaction to moisture. What is in abundance, are the potassium compounds such as salt, found in our soils. Plants require potassium to survive, and are a primary source of potassium for humans.
Normally, we have a sufficient amount of this vital element in our bodies. Since it is required for the functioning of every cell in the body, it would seem obvious that a deficiency would inevitably give rise to certain low potassium symptoms. What are some of these symptoms, how serious are they, and what, if anything, is the treatment?
By maintaining a healthy diet you are not apt to suffer from any of the symptoms, though there is the occasional exception to the rule. Potassium exists in the body in the form of electrolytes. People who sweat heavily from hard exercise, need to replenish and balance out their electrolytes. Otherwise they run the risk of incurring a potassium deficiency. Diarrhea, and the use of laxatives or diuretics, can also contribute to a deficiency. Certain medicines, such as those used in the treatment of asthma, may also be contributors.
Low potassium symptoms often are no different than the symptoms from other health problems, and blood test are at times the best way of determining whether a potassium deficiency exists. Here are a few signs to watch out for. If you have any of these, you should consult with a physician, certainly if any are severe in nature.
As our muscles depend upon potassium, a common symptom of a deficiency is a feeling of weakness or tiredness. Cramping in the arms or legs, and occasional abdominal cramping are other signs (bananas, high in potassium, are often recommended as a preventative). Proper kidney function is also dependent upon potassium levels, and frequent feelings of thirst, or a frequent need to urinate, are other symptoms of a deficiency.
Potassium also plays a role in regulating the function of the heart, and more serious low potassium symptoms, would be irregular heartbeat or palpitations, and lower than normal blood pressure, often a cause of fainting. People with a potassium deficiency can at times also exhibit abnormal behavior such as experiencing bouts of confusion, delirium, or hallucinations, or going through periods of depression. Of course a low potassium level is not the only cause behind symptoms such as those noted, and tests generally have to be run to see where the root cause of the problem lies.
If you eat a healthy and balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, the chances are that potassium symptoms will never pay you a visit.