What Are the Causes of Low Potassium Levels?
Potassium is the most prevalent cation in extracellular fluid, according to Carol Porth’s “Essentials of Pathophysiology.” Potassium concentration is controlled by the kidneys and a cell membrane pump. There are five main causes of low potassium, or hypokalemia.Low Potassium IntakePotassium intake is a key factor in the body’s maintaining its levels of that nutrient. According to L. Kathleen Mahan and Sylvia Escott-Stump, a typical adult needs 4,700mg of potassium per day.Intravenous FluidsUse of intravenous fluids without increased consumption or supplementation may cause decreased serum potassium levels. Intravenous fluids increase blood volume, which dilutes potassium concentration.Vomiting and DiarrheaPotassium can be lost rapidly through prolonged vomiting or diarrhea because it does not have a chance to absorb from the digestive system into the bloodstream.Kidney LossesAccording to “Essentials of Pathophysiology,” trauma, stress, diuretics, low magnesium levels and metabolic alka
