Tag: Causes of low potassium

According to some studies, over 20% of hospitalized patients experience hypokalemia, or low potassium levels. While a poor diet is rarely the sole reason, a number of other medical issues and medications are known to cause your potassium to drop significantly.

Approximately 1 out of 5 people hospitalized in the United States has a low potassium level, a condition known as hypokalemia. The root cause of low potassium is not always simple and can involve a combination of factors, such as excessive loss through the digestive tract or kidneys, or certain medical conditions and medications.

According to one study, up to 21% of hospitalized patients have serum potassium levels lower than 3.5 mEq/L, a condition known as hypokalemia. This low level can indicate a range of underlying health problems, affecting everything from muscle function and nerve signals to cardiovascular health. Understanding the potential causes and symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.