7 Signs of Low Potassium to Look Out For

TLDRIn this video, Dr. Ken Berry discusses the seven most common signs of low potassium or potassium deficiency that your doctor might miss.

Key insights

🔍Potassium acts as an electrolyte, balancing the fluid in your body and contributing to heart health.

🧠Low potassium can lead to mental fatigue, irritability, and sluggishness.

💪Potassium is vital for optimal muscle function, including contraction.

💩Constipation and bloating may be signs of low potassium, as it affects the smooth muscle in the gut.

❤️Palpitations or arrhythmias can indicate low potassium, as it affects the cardiac muscle.

Q&A

What are the potential symptoms of low potassium?

Physical weakness, mental fatigue, muscle cramps, constipation, palpitations, edema, and muscle aches are common symptoms of low potassium.

Can low potassium levels be detected through a blood test?

While a blood test can indicate your serum potassium level, it may not reflect severe depletion in the body.

How can I increase my potassium intake?

Consuming potassium-rich foods and using electrolyte drops can help maintain optimal potassium levels.

Can low potassium cause numbness?

Severely low potassium levels can lead to numbness in the fingers and toes.

Should I consult a doctor if I experience these symptoms?

It is recommended to consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Timestamped Summary

00:11Dr. Ken Berry introduces the topic of low potassium and its impact on human health.

01:04Potassium serves as an electrolyte, fluid balancer, and nerve and muscle function regulator in the body.

02:42Dr. Berry highlights seven signs of low potassium: physical weakness, mental fatigue, muscle cramps, constipation, palpitations, edema, and muscle aches.

05:13Severe potassium deficiency can cause numbness in the fingers and toes, indicating the need for medical attention.

06:01Dr. Berry provides tips on increasing potassium intake through diet and electrolyte drops.