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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Low Potatsium Level?

What would be causing my potatsium to keep becoming be de deplleted ? And what is a serious low, that I should worry and get a drink at ER, which I have done twice now. Then I had blood test I was in normal range . about a month later I had another then was just low and usually ina 3-4 I will drop even lower but I don t know when I should seek aid. Also my doctor does not care to keep a watch I only had recocitions as prn s I think thats what they are called from a locome Dr. when mine was on vacation and she saw it low and dropping in a two week period. I am worried. then I used the last Prn and I was shocked it read too high by 5 never has it ever been high.... I understand it can effect you the same way , with fatigue highten my pain I suffer with, I think this last test must be a false reading . I called my Dr. to see if she would arrange for the test again but no response . What do you think???
Thu, 29 Jan 2015
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows.
1. Low potassium is usually common due to low potassium diet intake. Excessive diarrhea or urinary loss due to diuretics, can cause low potassium
2. Level below 3.5 is considered low potassium.
3. Commonly it presents with muscle spasms. You can take diet rich in potassium like banana, aprictos, nuts, fish, avocada etc. Avoid taking direct potassium supplements unless prescribed.
4. Get regular serum potassium level checked. Below 3 should be considered significant. Increased potassium level is more dangerous.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
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What Causes Low Potatsium Level?

Hi, Thanks for asking. Based on your query, my opinion is as follows. 1. Low potassium is usually common due to low potassium diet intake. Excessive diarrhea or urinary loss due to diuretics, can cause low potassium 2. Level below 3.5 is considered low potassium. 3. Commonly it presents with muscle spasms. You can take diet rich in potassium like banana, aprictos, nuts, fish, avocada etc. Avoid taking direct potassium supplements unless prescribed. 4. Get regular serum potassium level checked. Below 3 should be considered significant. Increased potassium level is more dangerous. Hope it helps. Any further queries, happy to help again.