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When you're suffering from hypokalemia, your blood contains an abnormally low level of potassium. And though it may not sound like a serious issue, this nutrient is extremely important to your muscles and nerves. Most cases of hypokalemia can be directly linked to a few very specific factors.
Identification
Your potassium level should be between 3.6 to 4.8 mEq/L. In hypokalemia, your potassium has dropped to under 2.5 mEq/L.
Medications
One of the more common causes of hypokalemia can be directly linked to certain medications, such as laxatives and diuretics. With the increase in bowel movements or urination, a greater amount of potassium is lost through your stool or urine.
Illness
It is also possible for illnesses that trigger prolonged periods of vomiting and diarrhea to lead to hypokalemia. And much like with laxatives and diuretics, this is largely because of the loss of potassium through the expulsion of food and nutrients from the body.
Kidney Failure
Another potential cause for hypokalemia is kidney failure, as the kidneys may increase the elimination of potassium from your body.
Hormones
If your adrenal glands begin to produce an abnormal amount of aldosterone, your kidneys may begin to eliminate more potassium form your body than normal, leading to low potassium levels.
Sweating
The sweat secreted from your body contains potassium. And though not as common as other causes of this condition, excessive sweating may eventually lead to hypokalemia.
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