What are the symptoms of low potassium?

Potassium affects the way neuromuscular cells discharge energy (depolarize) and then regenerate (repolarize) that energy to be able to fire again. When potassium levels are low, the cells cannot repolarize and are unable to fire repeatedly, and muscles and nerves may not function normally. The effects of low potassium include may cause the following symptoms:

- muscle weakness,
- muscle aches,
- muscle cramps, and
- heart palpitations (irregular heartbeats).

What is the treatment for low potassium?

Serum potassium levels above 3.0 mEq/liter are not considered dangerous or of great concern; they can be treated with potassium replacement by mouth. Depending on the patient's medical condition, other medical problems, and the patient's symptoms, serum levels lower than 3.0 mEq/liter may require intravenous replacement. Decisions are patient-specific and depend upon the diagnosis, the circumstances of the illness, and the patient's ability to tolerate fluid and medication by mouth.

How can low potassium be prevented?

The body is usually able to maintain potassium levels within the normal range as long as there is adequate potassium in the diet. When the body loses potassium due to a short-term illness, the body is able to compensate for the loss. When the potassium loss is be ongoing, it is important for the patient and health-care professional to anticipate the loss, and consider routine potassium replacement.

(Source: www.medicinenet.com)