Feeling Stiff, Tired or Off? It Could be Your Potassium

I was feeling like the Tin Man from “The Wizard of Oz.” I was stiff, achy, and reluctant to move, especially after sitting for a while. I mentioned it to my doctor, and she ordered a blood test. The result? My potassium was low.

Most people don’t think about potassium until there’s a problem, but it’s essential. It helps your muscles work, keeps your heart rhythm steady, and supports nerve function. A recent article from the Mayo Clinic noted if your potassium level is low, , you might feel weak, tired, crampy, or even experience abnormal heart rhythms—especially if you take water pills (diuretics) or have been sick with vomiting or diarrhea.

According to the Mayo Clinic ( https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/low-potassium/basics/causes/sym-20050632) low potassium (hypokalemia) has many causes. The most common cause is excessive potassium loss in urine due to prescription medications that increase urination. Also known as water pills or diuretics, these types of medications are often prescribed for people who have high blood pressure or heart disease.

Vomiting, diarrhea or both also can result in excessive potassium loss from the digestive tract. Occasionally, low potassium is caused by not getting enough potassium in your diet.

Causes of potassium loss include:

1. Alcohol use

2. Chronic kidney disease

3. Diabetic ketoacidosis (in which the body has high levels of blood acids called ketones)

4. Diarrhea

5. Diuretics (water retention relievers)

6. Excessive laxative use

7. Excessive sweating

8. Folic acid deficiency

9. Primary aldosteronism

10. Some antibiotic use

11. Vomiting

Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) are the most worrisome complication of very low potassium levels, particularly in people with underlying heart disease.

Have your level tested and talk to your doctor about what your blood test results mean. You may need to change a medication that's affecting your potassium level, or you may need to treat another medical condition that's causing your low potassium level.

Treatment of low potassium is directed at the underlying cause and may include potassium supplements. Don't make any changes to your health protocol or start taking potassium supplements without talking to your doctor first.

My doctor adjusted my blood pressure medication ( a diuretic) and recommended a potassium supplement. What a difference! I’m now moving pain-free again and I feel much better.

Lou