HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Suggest Treatment For Low Pottasium Level In Body

default
Posted on Wed, 21 May 2014
Question: Dear Doctor XXXXXXX
I'm 53 years old woman experiencing a lack of potassium lately.
I have sever muscle cramps while sleeping in ankles and legs.
Today feeling symptom's in heart area I'm sure its the lack of potassium.
I wondering what course of action, I should do to address this problem.
Yesterday was in a hot climate driving home, experienced lots of ankle cramps
which is difficult while driving stick shift. Hope you have some good advise.
Thank you,
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Karl Logan (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You should have your potassium levels checked

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for you question.

If you think your potassium is low then you should have some blood work done to confirm the diagnosis. Having abnormal levels of potassium or other salts in the blood certainly can cause muscle spasms and cramps.

Your Dr should also investigate why you have a low potassium. The commonest cause is medication such as diuretics which are taken to lower your blood pressure.

Bananas are an excellent source of potassium if your potassium is low, sometimes in patients with very low potassium, potassium tablets are required. These can however upset your stomach and are often not well tolerated.

Your right in that a low potassium could result in a heart arrhythmia which would give you palpitations. If you have felt your heart fluttering in your chest you should have some blood work this week to check your salt levels. Your dr may also want to get an EKG.

I hope this answers your question.

Best wishes
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Karl Logan

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 705 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Suggest Treatment For Low Pottasium Level In Body

Brief Answer: You should have your potassium levels checked Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for you question. If you think your potassium is low then you should have some blood work done to confirm the diagnosis. Having abnormal levels of potassium or other salts in the blood certainly can cause muscle spasms and cramps. Your Dr should also investigate why you have a low potassium. The commonest cause is medication such as diuretics which are taken to lower your blood pressure. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium if your potassium is low, sometimes in patients with very low potassium, potassium tablets are required. These can however upset your stomach and are often not well tolerated. Your right in that a low potassium could result in a heart arrhythmia which would give you palpitations. If you have felt your heart fluttering in your chest you should have some blood work this week to check your salt levels. Your dr may also want to get an EKG. I hope this answers your question. Best wishes