The level of potassium affects the nerves and communications of muscle cells in the digestive system, heart and all other muscles. Most of the potassium contained in our body is found in cells and, normally, its level in the blood is kept within specific values by our endocrine system. People with a low level of potassium (hypokalaemia), as well as those who have a high level of potassium (hyperkalaemia), have various physical difficulties.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Identify Common Symptoms
Step 1. Pay attention to the first warning signs
The first indications of a moderate potassium deficiency may be muscle aches, cramps and excessive fatigue. Low potassium levels do not allow neuromuscular cells to recharge quickly and activate repeatedly, as a result the muscles will have difficulty contracting.
Weakness, muscle spasms, and muscle tingling or numbness may signal a worsening of potassium deficiency and require immediate medical attention
Step 2. Get a diagnosis as soon as possible
A severe or protracted potassium deficiency can damage the heart. Low potassium levels can adversely affect its functions. The consequences can include an irregular heartbeat, which can sometimes lead to a dangerous arrhythmia.
Step 3. Be aware of the possible causes of a potassium deficiency
If you have dysentery, dehydration, vomiting or weakness, it may be advisable to have a potassium level test. A comprehensive examination provides a diagnosis through a basic metabolic panel (BMP) and an electrolyte test (which includes sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chlorine, hydrogen phosphate, and hydrogen carbonate).
Depending on your condition, your doctor may instead prescribe a complete metabolic panel (CMP), in which liver function will also be analyzed
Method 2 of 3: Get a Diagnosis
Step 1. Check your potassium levels
A serum potassium level below 3.5 millimoles per liter (mmol / L) can be considered low; the normal range is between 3, 6 and 5, 2 mmol / L). Levels of other electrolytes, such as calcium, glucose, magnesium, and phosphorus, can also be examined.
- A blood test may also include creatine levels and the urea nitrogen index (BUN), indicators of liver function.
- Patients who are taking digitalis (a drug for treating heart disease) also need to have their digoxin levels tested as it is a medicine that affects heart rhythms.
Step 2. Get an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
Heart function will be monitored to look for any signs of damage or pathologies. If you have a lot of body hair, your doctor may decide to shave some areas of skin to place 12 electrodes on the arms, chest and legs. Each electrode transmits electrical information relating to the heart to a monitor for a period of 5-10 minutes. As a patient you will need to remain as still as possible and sometimes have to undergo a second ECG.
Low potassium levels can also be related to low magnesium levels. This could prolong the intervals on the ECG and could lead to torsades de pointes
Method 3 of 3: Determine the Causes
Step 1. If you need to take a diuretic, talk to your doctor
Diuretic drugs can adversely affect potassium levels. People with particular conditions, including hypertension, may need to take a diuretic. In the event of a consequent potassium deficiency, however, it will be necessary to speak to your doctor and seek an alternative solution.
Diuretics are a category of drugs that includes furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). The purpose of diuretics is to reduce high blood pressure by increasing urination. However, since some minerals, such as potassium, are excreted from the body in the urine, diuretics can create a bodily imbalance
Step 2. Analyze your lifestyle for potential causes of potassium deficiency
Although some reasons may be medical, often a change in our lifestyle can help us regain health. If you drink too much alcohol, use laxatives too frequently, or suffer from heavy sweating, it can directly affect your potassium deficiency. Talk to a doctor and discuss how you can change your habits to overcome the problem.
- If you're worried you won't be able to give up alcohol effortlessly, ask a friend or a support group for help.
- If you make frequent use of laxative medications, talk to your doctor and find out how to replace them with natural methods.
- If you sweat profusely, change the conditions in your favor. Stay hydrated, cool the room where you study or work, or ask your doctor for help.
Step 3. Undergo further tests to detect any pathologies
Sometimes a potassium deficiency can indicate the presence of a more serious disease. Chronic kidney disease or diabetic ketoacidosis can cause a low potassium level and should be treated immediately. Additional conditions that can lead to potassium deficiency are folic acid deficiency or stomach upset causing persistent vomiting or dysentery.
Hyperaldosteronism leads to a syndrome that includes hypertension and hypokalemia
Step 4. Correct your nutrition
The best way to increase potassium levels is to eat foods that contain large amounts of it. Alternatively, you can take a potassium supplement, but only after consulting your doctor to avoid overloading your body. Among the foods rich in potassium we can mention:
- Bananas;
- Avocado;
- Tomatoes;
- Potatoes;
- Spinach;
- Beans and peas
- Dried fruit.
Advice
- Tests may indicate that you need to take a potassium supplement, in liquid or capsule form, to raise the levels in your blood. Discuss with your doctor the possible underlying causes of potassium deficiency and the need to change your diet or any medications (including diuretics).
- Potassium is a chemical element present only in nature in the form of salts, including for example potassium chloride used in cooking as a substitute for salt, although it has a less pleasant taste than common table salt (sodium chloride). Commonly contained in sea water and in many minerals, it is a fundamental element for every organism.
- Severe cases of hypokalaemia can be treated pharmacologically by injecting a potassium solution directly into the veins or by taking it orally.
- In the absence of symptoms, in less severe cases of hypokalaemia, drugs may not be needed. Your doctor may advise you to modify your diet to include those foods that are rich in potassium and to rely on the body's natural ability to correct its levels.
