Symptoms | Potassium deficiency

Symptoms

In general, a potassium deficiency lowers the excitability of the cells. Muscles and nerves are particularly affected by this, as they are particularly dependent on excitation. A slight potassium deficiency (3.5-3.2 mmol/l) is usually not noticeable in healthy hearts.

From a potassium blood value of less than 3.2 mmol/l, physical symptoms are to be expected, especially if the deficiency occurs suddenly. These include muscle weakness and even paralysis (occurring on both sides); muscle cramps can also occur. In addition, numbness and false sensations such as tingling may occur.

The heart is prone to arrhythmias, which is manifested by the feeling of “heart stumbling” or “palpitations”. A previous heart condition (e.g. heart attack) or treatment with the heart medication Digitalis promotes this. As the intestine loses its mobility, constipation can occur.

Furthermore, a tendency to high blood sugar levels can occur and increased urination can occur. All these phenomena are usually accompanied by general fatigue. The doctor can often additionally detect typical changes in the ECG. In the case of a chronic potassium deficiency, as in Gitelman syndrome, the body can adapt and the symptoms may disappear.

Diagnostics

In order to find out the reason for the potassium deficiency, the medication to be taken should first be checked. Particular attention should be paid to diuretics (drainage), beta-agonists (against asthma), penicillin antibiotics and insulin. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract must also be considered.

Measurements of blood gases and electrolytes in urine and blood help to find the cause. It is also not uncommon for other electrolyte disorders to be discovered. If hormonal causes (hyperaldosteronism) are suspected, the corresponding hormones in the blood can be checked. If the cause is not found, hidden vomiting or misuse of laxatives and alcohol may also be possible. For the rare Gitelman syndrome the mutated gene can be detected.

Therapy

In the acute situation, the therapy goal is to compensate for the potassium deficiency. The missing amount of potassium can be calculated and should be given in the form of potassium-rich food (fruit, nuts, chocolate) or tablets in the absence of severe symptoms. In cases of life-threatening symptoms (such as arrhythmias), potassium can be given directly via the blood. However, care must be taken not to give too much potassium, otherwise a dangerous excess of potassium is produced. As a matter of principle, however, action should be taken against the triggering disease or triggering substances should be avoided.