Causes and Treatment for those Suffering from Potassium Deficiency

Causes and Treatment for those Suffering from Potassium Deficiency

Suffering from Potassium

Potassium is one of the vital nutrients essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It helps in converting the glucose into glycogen, building muscles and in other important body growth. People who have potassium deficiency in their blood levels, suffer from a health condition called hyperkalemia.


The Characteristics Of This Potassium Deficiency Condition Includes:

  • Allergies
  • Fatigue
  • Acne
  • Formation of Kidney Stones

Causes Of Potassium Deficiency:

  • Consuming food low in potassium
  • Not including food like fresh fruits, vegetables, green leafy vegetables, seafood, whole grains and herbs rich in potassium, in your daily diet
  • Loss of fluid due to conditions like diarrhea, vomiting or excess sweating, flashes of the essential nutrients leading to potassium deficiency
  • Certain medications used for treating kidney related ailments and diabetes also leads to flushing out this important mineral from or bodies

Symptoms:

  • Paralytic Attack
  • Muscle Stiffness leading to Severe Muscle Pain
  • Muscles getting Tender and Weak
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Tingling and Numbness Sensations
  • Cramps
  • Abdominal Bloating
  • Frequent Fainting and Dizziness
  • Feeling Extremely Thirsty
  • Frequent Urination

Diseases Caused Due to Potassium Deficiency:

  • Migraines
  • Kidney Ailments
  • Hypertension/High Blood Pressure
  • Irregular Heart Functioning
  • Mental Fatigue
  • Hair loss or Alopecia
  • Muscular Degeneration
  • Skin Problems
  • Stomach Disorder
  • Diabetic Complications

Treatment:

  • First and foremost increase the intake of food rich in potassium
  • Include foods like fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet
  • Keep your body hydrated by increasing the intake of fluids that will compensate for the excess body secretion
  • Whenever you are suffering from severe vomiting or diarrhea treat it immediately by taking proper medication and if the problem still persists then visit the doctor immediately
  • If the potassium deficiency is dangerously low in your body then it is advised to resort to supplements that can create a balance in the body. However these supplements should be taken only under the supervision of a physician.
  • Sehat provides list of best General Physicians in Hyderabad from which you can research and choose the right doctor for your condition.

Reviewed By:

Dr. Kaushal M. Bhavsar (MBBS, MD)

Assistant Professor in Pulmonary Medicine, GMERS Medical College, Ahmedabad