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What Causes Fatigue Despite Normal Electrolyte Levels In Blood?
I have normal electrolyte levels in my blood, as indicated by a recent CBC and Met panel, but I have been tired, and have cotton mouth even after drinking water. I had my ferritin level tested as it has been low before but now it was 60, so okay there, but to me a little high. I don t take an iron supp. Also, I have low BG levels when tested, usually fasting is around 85-95. So far as I can tell no T2 diabetes. So, I began drinking fresh orange juice and this has seemed to help. But the question is, if all tests are normal, should I have a urine test done to determine if I am excreting potassium and in that way I am low in potassium? And if low, why is my body excreting it?
posted on
Sun, 19 Jun 2016
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Fri, 24 Jan 2020
Answered on
Wed, 29 Jan 2020
Last reviewed on
Hello,
If your electrolyte check does not show any problem with electrolytes than potassium levels are normal as well, as potassium is also checked when electrolytes are checked.
You do not need to do any tests to check for potassium in the urine as long as potassium in the blood is good. It is clear that your weakness is not due to potassium.
Tests that can be done are tests to check kidney function, liver function, TSH for thyroid function, etc. If all the tests come out normal then very likely problems with sleep (sleep apnea) or depression/anxiety are very likely the cause of your fatigue.
I hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General & Family Physician
If your electrolyte check does not show any problem with electrolytes than potassium levels are normal as well, as potassium is also checked when electrolytes are checked.
You do not need to do any tests to check for potassium in the urine as long as potassium in the blood is good. It is clear that your weakness is not due to potassium.
Tests that can be done are tests to check kidney function, liver function, TSH for thyroid function, etc. If all the tests come out normal then very likely problems with sleep (sleep apnea) or depression/anxiety are very likely the cause of your fatigue.
I hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General & Family Physician
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