What is a potassium deficiency?
Doctors speak of a potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) when the level of this important mineral in the blood serum falls below the normal range (below 3.8 mmol/l in adults). In contrast, a serum potassium level of more than 5.2 mmol/l (adults) is referred to as excess potassium (hyperkalemia). The regulation of potassium excretion is regulated by the hormone aldosterone, which causes potassium to be released into the urine.
When does a potassium deficiency occur?
The causes of potassium deficiency are very diverse, as it plays a crucial role in the functioning of all cells and is therefore found everywhere.
Loss of potassium via the kidneys
If the body releases more aldosterone or cortisol than required, more potassium is excreted via the urine with the help of the kidneys. This is known as hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome) or hypercortisolism.
Certain medications can have a similar effect on potassium excretion via the kidneys. These include diuretics, glucocorticoids and antibiotics. In addition, kidney failure can also lead to potassium loss.
Loss of potassium via the gastrointestinal tract
Reduced potassium intake
Although potassium is found in a wide variety of foods, malnutrition can lead to a potassium deficiency.
Redistribution of potassium
Potassium is found both inside cells and in the fluid outside the cells. If the pH value of the body rises sharply (alkalosis), the body reacts with an exchange of ions (charged particles) and introduces more potassium into the cells. This results in a potassium deficiency in the serum.
The same phenomenon occurs with insulin therapy. Insulin stimulates the exchange of intracellular sodium for potassium and reduces the amount of extracellular potassium.
What are the symptoms of potassium deficiency?
As potassium is significantly involved in cell excitation and signal transmission, a potassium deficiency leads to cardiac arrhythmia, muscle weakness (paresis) and reduced reflexes, for example. Constipation and increased urine excretion (polyuria) can also develop. Those affected also often complain of tiredness. Potassium deficiency symptoms should always be taken seriously.
What are the consequences of a potassium deficiency?
Secondly, a potassium deficiency can cause the heart cells to recover more slowly from a contraction. As the recovery time varies from cell to cell, they lose their rhythm, which ultimately leads to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias.
Various signs in the ECG, such as extrasystoles or a flattening of the T wave, indicate a potassium deficiency.
How can a potassium deficiency be compensated for?
Acute hypokalemia is an emergency due to the possible consequences. The patient must be given intravenous potassium chloride immediately and his condition must be closely monitored. If medication is responsible for the potassium deficiency, it should be discontinued as quickly as possible.
In the case of a chronic deficiency, potassium supplements can be used to correct the potassium deficiency. A potassium-rich diet with vegetables and pulses, potato products, fruit juices and nuts is much simpler and more sustainable.
