what is potassium?

Question

My dad went to blood work(laboratory)....and DR say your potassium is to low..........

Answer 1

If potassium is low then you are at risk of heart arrhythmias (abnormal beats). The doctor should prescribe some potassium supplement.
Potassium is more likely to be low if your dad is on a diuretic like furosemide (lasix).
Hope your dad is ok

Answer 2

Potassium is an important mineral needed by the body to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.It also plays a major role in muscle contraction. It can be taken in adequate amounts by taking potassium rich foods like bananas , orange juice, broccoli, etc. Its secretion is regulated by the kidneys.

If your dad's potassium level is too low I hope he was given some potassium supplements. Low potassium level could be fatal if left untreated. The heart functions could be altered which is dangerous.

There are different causes for having low potassium:
>>Maybe his potassium intake is insufficient.
>>Episodes of diarrhea and vomiting and severe perspiration can cause a low potassium level.
>>Medications such as anti diuretics (Lasix,thiazides), laxatives, and few others can be a cause as well.
>>Some diseases can also cause low potassium level.

For now, your dad needs a potassium supplementation or take an adequate intake of potassium. If his potassium level is not corrected in a week or two, and without identifiable cause, he has to go trough a check up to find out the underlying cause.

Be reminded that high potassium level is as dangerous as low level.

Answer 3

potassium is an electrolyte mainly intracellular it have role in heart muscle contraction about the causes it could be due to loop diuretcs also in occur in dirrhea and vomiting but if your dad taking loop diuretic he can take spirinolactone which is potassium spairing diuretic