Suggest Treatment For Low Pottasium Level In Body
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
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