The kidneys normally regulate potassium level without any difficulty, but in kidney failure this control is lost. This impaired renal function causing loss of potassium in the urine or to inadequate intake.
Diarrhea and use of diuretics or laxatives all disrupt potassium levels. Low levels of potassium also may occur as a result of vomiting, receiving steroid medications or when the body is in very low acid state – alkalosis.
Tobacco and caffeine are also known to recue reduce potassium absorption.
Using large amounts of licorice over long periods can deplete the body’s potassium supply.
Potassium is needed for hormone secretion, The secretion of stress hormones causes a decrease in the potassium to sodium ration both inside and outside the cells. As a result, stress increases the body’s potassium requirements.
Low potassium levels may result in muscle pain, hyporeflexia, nausea , vomiting and orthostatic hypotension.
Signs of a potassium deficiency include dry skin, acne, insatiable thirst, mental confusion, sodium retention, muscular fatigue and headaches.
Low levels of potassium
