How to Identify a Potassium Deficiency

Stored within the cells of the body, potassium is essential to healthy muscle function. Alkaline in nature, this mineral regulates the pH balance of the body, reducing harmful acid levels. A deficiency of potassium, known as hypokalemia, is a serious condition that may cause heart damage or eventual paralysis if not corrected quickly.

Instructions

• 1

  Suspect a slight deficiency in your potassium level if you have diarrhea or vomiting. Since potassium excretes in bodily fluids, a bout with the stomach flu or food poisoning can result in a potassium deficiency.

• 2

  Check your complexion. Acne is a common symptom of a potassium deficiency although it is also common during adolescence and a symptom of other conditions. Look for acne along with other skin problems such as blisters, hives, rashes or very dry skin.

• 3

  Consider a potassium deficiency if you develop muscle weakness or a pounding heart after a bout of physical activity where experienced sweating but did not replace bodily fluids. Dehydration is a common cause of a potassium deficiency.

• 4

  Observe changes to your sleeping habits if you suspect a potassium deficiency. When too little potassium is present in your body, you may experience insomnia, restlessness and the inability to relax.

• 5

  Monitor mental changes in a patient who suffers from heat-related disorders. Since potassium passes in bodily fluids, those with a history of heat intolerance are prone to losing potassium quickly when they sweat or urinate.