Symptoms of Hypokalemia or low Potassium levels

The mineral , potassium, helps in the contraction process for muscles throughout the body, and the heart requires this substance for the proper regulation of blood pressure.

Low potassium level symptoms may involve several different areas of the body at once. Commonly, the symptoms affect the gastrointestinal tract as well as the kidneys. However, it has been found that the heart may be affected as well as the nerves that run throughout the body. The muscles are often affected as well.

Many experience cramping sensations in the muscles of the legs and/or the arms. The cramps can often be quite severe and can result in a form of paralysis that makes it very difficult to move the limbs with ease. This is often accompanied with weakness that makes movements and other activities involving the limb that is affected difficult. Some individuals may experience high levels of nausea when their potassium is low. This nausea may be accompanied by bouts of vomiting. For individuals that experience these symptoms, it is common for bloating in the abdominal area to be experienced. The muscles in the abdominal area may also begin to experience mild to severe cramping. Blood pressure may rise drastically, or it may drop suddenly. If it drops, many will faint. If it increases, symptoms such as chest pain and headaches may occur.

Psychological complications may also be experienced when potassium levels in the body drop. These complications may be as simple as depression or as serious as having hallucinations.

The symptoms of low potassium levels can commonly affect the gastrointestinal tract as well as the kidneys.

If you experience any of the above symptoms over a prolonged period of time, are experiencing discomfort and are concerned, it is advisable to visit your local GP or clinic and arrange to have tests done to check your level of potassium.