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Doctors for Potassium Deficiency 
Potassium Deficiency articles
What is potassium deficiency?
Potassium deficiency is a rare condition, which is medically known as hypokalaemia. In this condition, there is a deficiency of potassium in the body producing specific signs and symptoms.
What are its main signs and symptoms?
The first and the most common symptom of potassium deficiency is a generalised weakness in the whole body and fatigue. Other particular symptoms of this deficiency are as follows:
- A problem in food digestion.
- Muscle cramps and stiffness.
- Palpitation (a notably rapid, irregular and loud heartbeat).
- Difficulty in breathing.
- Numbness or tingling in the limbs.
What are the main causes?
There are many medical conditions and drug side effects which can result in potassium deficiency. Some of the causes are listed below:
- Severe cases of diarrhoea and vomiting.
- Loss of blood in a large amount.
- Kidney malfunction or kidney failure.
- Leukaemia (a type of blood cancer).
- Medicine pills used for asthma and emphysema can also result in potassium deficiency.
How is it diagnosed and treated?
On presenting with the above-mentioned symptoms, the physician may order a few tests, such as a blood test, which can show the levels of potassium, calcium, and other minerals in the bloodstream.
In the case of irregular heart rhythms, an electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be suggested, as a potassium deficiency can affect the heart rate.
The treatment for this condition is easy and shows rapid improvement in symptoms. Based on the condition of the person and the presenting symptoms, the doctor will suggest various medications. If the potassium content in the bloodstream is not dangerously low, then the physician will prescribe certain pills or syrup with potassium salts to restore the potassium balance.
If the case is severe and the person is suffering from palpitations, he/she is put on an intravenous (IV or through the vein) supplementation of potassium.
Alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum to avoid risks of developing potassium deficiency and a balanced diet should be followed.
Dr. Ayush Pandey
