What can low potassium levels cause to the body?

Answer 1

potassium is an ion (K is standard abriviation)

in your blood, along with sodium (Na)

They must be in a sort of balance (lots of K in the cells, lots of Na in the blood) for your cells to function (and for you to live).

Low potassium is usually dietary but can be a renal (kidney) problem.

==Answer ==

Potassium is an essential nutrient for the body. It is used for (among other things) nerve production, blood pressure, and your metabolism. Good sources of potassium are potatoes and bananas. Our kidneys can not reserve potassium, so we must always replenish.

I've seen better, but this is pretty good:

http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Jirves1.html

Answer 2

My dr. Informed me that this is common in women. There are no particular reasons why, but it does occur in a lot of women and they never even realize it. Sure signs are cramps,vascular spasms, fatique, cracked, painful lips on corners where the lips meet. Ways to bring it up,eat a bananna,sweet potatoes, coconut water, or other foods high in potassium.

Answer 3

Low potassium (represented by levels lower than 3.5 mEq/L in an adult) is a serious condition. It is essential for the transmission of electrical impulses in cardiac and skeletal muscle. It also functions in enzyme reactions and helps maintain the acid-base balance of the body.

Low serum (blood) potassium (K) levels cause symptoms of thirst, increased urination, low blood pressure, weak pulse, decreased reflexes, decreased appetite, vomiting, and cardiac abnormalities (depressed T waves and ventricular ectopy on an ECG)

Reference:

Davis' Comprehensive Laboratory and Diagnostic Handbook, 4th edition

Answer 4

Low potassium levels (hypokalemia), can cause weakness as cellular processes are impaired. Potassium is a mineral (electrolyte) in the body. Almost 98% of potassium is found inside the cells. Small changes in the level of potassium that is present outside the cells can have severe effects on the heart, nerves, and muscles. Potassium is important to maintain several bodily functions: Muscles need potassium to contract. The heart muscle needs potassium to beat properly and regulate blood pressure. The kidney is the main organ that controls the balance of potassium by removing excess potassium into the urine.

Answer 5

Low potassium levels, known as hypokalemia, can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heart rhythm. Severe cases may cause paralysis or life-threatening heart disturbances. It is important to address and treat low potassium levels to prevent complications.

Answer 6

eating the wrong foodan not drinking enough water

Answer 7

The body cannot produce minerals it can extract them in various ways and efficiencies from the nutrients that the body metabolizes.