An irregular heartbeat or arterial hypertension could be indicators of a potassium insufficiency (hypokalaemia). A person suffering from this deficiency may report muscle pain or weakness. Potassium is needed by muscle cells to function at maximum efficiency and a low level of this mineral causes slower regeneration than is needed. Low blood potassium levels result from kidney or gastrointestinal health problems. Some medications can cause potassium deficiency. A diet rich in salt may require a higher intake of potassium. Correct this habit or counter the effects of potassium-lowering drugs by finding a remedy to bring it back to normal. You can manage some solutions for hypokalaemia on your own, while in severe cases medical treatment is required.
Steps
Step 1. Eat foods rich in potassium to increase the level
The lack of this mineral is not due to a poor diet but can be treated with food. Supplement your potassium intake by eating fruits such as cantaloupe, bananas, strawberries, avocado, kiwi, oranges and apricots. Choose beef, turkey or fish as a main course with a side of green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, mushrooms, peas and beetroot. Drink orange, grapefruit, plum or apricot fruit juices.
Step 2. Wait for the potassium level to rise by itself
A brief illness with symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting may have lowered the potassium in the blood. In this case, you can eat potassium-rich foods and wait. Your body will recover and the potassium will return to normal on its own.
Step 3. Take oral supplements
These can be taken to keep the potassium level stable for a long time. Many multivitamins contain potassium. Other supplements are in the form of pills, liquids, or powders. Many people on potassium-lowering medication therapy need to take these supplements, which are safe when taken under medical supervision. It is very common to have a joint prescription of drug and supplement.
Step 4. Get prescribed potassium infusions
When it is necessary to raise the potassium level quickly, a drip is given, albeit with great caution. Experienced doctors know the right amount and the right frequency of administration so that potassium does not become toxic to the patient. If infused too quickly, potassium can damage the heart and veins.
