Hypokalemia (low blood potassium)
About Hypokalemia (low blood potassium)
Low potassium level in the blood. Causes of hypokalemia include: 1) medications, especially diuretics; 2) kidney disease; 3) diarrhea; 4) vomiting; 5) eating disorders (bulimia). The body requires potassium for muscle contraction (including the heart), and for other important bodily functions.Symptoms
Palpitations, weakness, fainting, muscle twitching, constipation, paralysis.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood and urine tests to determine the cause of the disorder may be recommended.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment includes: reversing the cause of the low potassium, and repleting the potassium orally and/or with intravenous potassium. Oral repletion may include foods that are high in potassium (such as bananas, cantaloupe, and yogurt) or a prescription supplement.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Endocrinology · Nephrology · Family Practice · Pediatric Nephrology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Hypokalemia (low blood potassium).