Potassium deficiency in diseases
Since potassium is involved in the function of many systems in the body, special attention must be paid to the potassium level in various diseases in order to be able to recognize a possible potassium deficiency in time. Particularly in the case of basic kidney diseases, it is important to have the potassium level regularly determined by a blood test performed by a doctor. Since the kidney is responsible for excreting excess substances, a non-functioning kidney may excrete too many or too few minerals.
Even in the case of heart failure and cardiac arrhythmia, the potassium levels in the blood should be checked regularly. This is also the case if the cause of the disease is not a lack of potassium. If an imbalance of minerals does occur during the course of the disease, it is important to recognize this quickly and to improve the symptoms by balancing them. If, due to a cardiac insufficiency, dehydrating drugs (diuretics) or other heart-supporting drugs (ACE inhibitors, Sartane, aldosterone antagonists) are taken, it is also recommended to check potassium levels regularly, as potassium has a great influence on the work of the heart and regulates the body’s water balance.
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