Photo: Megan Ruth

What are the 10 signs of low potassium?

If you have low levels of potassium, symptoms may include: weakness. feeling tired. muscle cramps. confusion. constipation. an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) – skipped heartbeats or an irregular heartbeat. tingling or numbness. increased urination.

healthdirect.gov.au - Potassium deficiency - symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment

How do I prepare for my first laser session?

Tips on Preparing for Laser Hair Removal Avoid waxing and plucking. ... Avoid direct sun exposure. ... Check your skincare regimen. ... Cleanse and...

Last updated Jul 9, 2020

Is 0.5 alcohol OK when pregnant?

However, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) says that no amount of alcohol during pregnancy is considered safe, since it's...

Last updated Mar 26, 2019

Weird “juice ritual” removes 65lbs in weeks

A potent powdered supplement, based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »

Promotion

What is potassium deficiency?

Potassium deficiency is when a person has abnormally low levels of potassium in their body. It is also called hypokalaemia. Potassium is a mineral that helps regulate fluid in the body and helps muscles and nerves to work properly. It is found inside cells and is essential for good health.

What are the symptoms of potassium deficiency?

If you have low levels of potassium, symptoms may include:

weakness

feeling tired

muscle cramps

confusion

constipation

an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) – skipped heartbeats or an irregular heartbeat

tingling or numbness

increased urination

What causes potassium deficiency?

Hypokalaemia can happen if someone becomes dehydrated. Some medications can cause the body to lose potassium, such as diuretics (fluid tablets).

You are at risk of developing low potassium levels if you:

have vomiting or diarrhoea

have a very physically demanding job causing sweating

live in extremely hot climates

are a professional athlete

are taking antibiotics

have chronic kidney disease

have an eating disorder such as bulimia

have low magnesium levels in the body

don’t get enough potassium from your diet (though this is very rare)

How is potassium deficiency diagnosed?

Potassium deficiency is diagnosed with a blood test. Your doctor may order a test as part of a routine medical examination, or because you have high blood pressure or kidney disease.

How is potassium deficiency treated?

If you have low potassium, your doctor may recommend you take a supplement. You should only take a potassium supplement under medical supervision, as having too much potassium in the body can also cause serious health problems. If your levels are very low, you may need potassium through a drip in hospital. Your doctor may also adjust your medications, if they are causing the potassium deficiency, or recommend you eat more foods that are high in potassium.

What are the complications of potassium deficiency?

Someone with severe hypokalemia can experience:

decreased brain function

high blood sugar levels

muscle paralysis

difficulty breathing

irregular heartbeat

Severe hypokalemia can be life threatening.

Can potassium deficiency be prevented?

Most people can prevent potassium deficiency by eating a healthy, balanced diet.

If you are at increased risk, for example if you are taking diuretics, talk to your doctor about your potassium levels.

Why can't I shower after laser?

Hot water causes your blood to rise to the skin's surface which can cause swelling and irritation and reduce the efficacy of LHR. Keeping your...

Last updated Jan 20, 2018

What's the healthiest way to drink lemon water?

Lemon water is generally safe to drink, but there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. Lemon contains citric acid, which may erode...

Last updated Sep 28, 2021

Purple weed obliterates 72lbs of flab

The main ingredient for a potent powdered supplement, based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »

Promotion

What are the 5 warning signs of a stroke?

Call 9-1-1 immediately if any of these signs of stroke appear: Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg; Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech; Trouble seeing in one or both eyes; Trouble walking, dizziness, or problems with balance; severe headache with no known cause.

cdc.gov - Stroke Signs and Symptoms | cdc.gov

The stroke treatments that work best are available only if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within 3 hours of the first symptoms. Stroke patients may not be eligible for these if they don’t arrive at the hospital in time. If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and do the following test:

F—Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A—Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange?

T—Time: If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away.

Note the time when any symptoms first appear. This information helps health care providers determine the best treatment for each person. Do not drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you. Call 9-1-1 for an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency room.

What should I do to treat a transient ischemic attack (“mini-stroke”)?

If your stroke symptoms go away after a few minutes, you may have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also sometimes called a “mini-stroke.” Although brief, a TIA is a sign of a serious condition that will not go away without medical help. Unfortunately, because TIAs clear up, many people ignore them. But paying attention to a TIA can save your life. If you think you or someone you know has had a TIA, tell a health care team about the symptoms right away.

More information

CDC

Other Organizations

How do you get rid of lower belly pooch fast?

There are plenty of smart strategies that can help you slim down all over and reduce the amount of fat around your lower belly. Cut your calories....

Last updated May 2, 2020

Are unpeeled carrots healthier?

Peeling a carrot does not remove the majority of vitamins, according to the Tufts University Nutrition Letter. The carrot skin contains...

Last updated Oct 11, 2021

Weird “juice ritual” removes 65lbs in weeks

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

Promotion

Is detox good for stomach?

Unless you have a digestive disorder such as Crohn's disease or gastroparesis, there's no conclusive medical evidence that detoxes or cleanses will...

Last updated Dec 15, 2022

Tasty juice “eats through” 54lbs of thick flab

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

Promotion

What juice is good for cough?

5 days ago Pineapple juice Pineapple juice may help with a cough due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The bromelain in pineapple juice can help...

Last updated Nov 24, 2019