Potassium Deficiency – Causes, Symptoms and What To Do

Symptoms of Low Potassium (Hypokalemia)
One of the biggest problems in terms of potassium is the fact that symptoms of potassium deficiency are often mild and vague and this means that potassium deficiencies are often overlooked. This can result in devastating and sometimes life-threatening consequences.

Since potassium is vital for supporting electrical signal transmission, it’s not surprising that symptoms relating to the muscular system are top of the list of the symptoms of low potassium levels.

1. Muscle Cramps – I’ve already mentioned that one of the causes of muscle cramps is low potassium levels – low potassium levels often result in cramps in the arms and legs[3]. When your muscles do not have sufficient potassium, your cells that form the muscles cannot function efficiently, resulting in cramps.

Cramps can range from being fairly uncomfortable to debilitating. Involuntary muscle twitches are mini cramps or indications of muscle malfunction that can be an indication that you don’t have sufficient potassium. If you are experiencing cramps on a regular basis then you should make an appointment with your physician.

2. Heart palpitations – Heart palpitations could be a serious symptom of low potassium levels and if you are experiencing heart palpitations, then you should seek immediate medical assistance.

3. Frequent urination