Hypokalemia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Hypokalemia is a low level of potassium in your blood. Potassium helps control how your muscles, heart, and digestive system work. Hypokalemia occurs when your body loses too much potassium or does not absorb enough from food.
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Medicine:
You will receive potassium to bring your levels back to normal. This may be given as a pill or IV.
Tests:
- Blood tests will be done to monitor your potassium levels. They will also show how well your treatment is working.
- Urine tests may be done to check your kidney function and help monitor your condition.
- Telemetry is continuous monitoring of your heart rhythm. Sticky pads placed on your skin connect to an EKG machine that records your heart rhythm.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Nutrition:
You may need to increase potassium in your diet. A dietitian may meet with you to teach you about foods that are high in potassium. Foods that are high in potassium include bananas, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, and avocado. Pinto beans, turkey, salmon, lean beef, yogurt, and milk are also high in potassium.
RISKS:
You can develop hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium) if you receive too much potassium too quickly. This can lead to heart damage.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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