Potassium is an essential mineral for the proper functioning of the nervous, muscle, cardiac and pH system of the blood. Altered potassium levels in the blood can cause various health problems such as fatigue, heart arrhythmias and fainting. Potassium is one of the body’s most important minerals and is present within cells and in the blood.

A potassium-rich diet is associated with several health benefits, such as decreased water retention, regulating blood pressure, and reducing the risk of heart attack. This mineral can be obtained by consuming meats, cereals and nuts.

• Potassium is an electrolyte present inside cells.
• Playing a fundamental role in the hydroelectrolytic balance of the body.
• Preventing dehydration as well as in the balance of blood pH.

In addition, potassium is necessary for the emission of nerve signals that regulate muscle and cardiac contraction, as well as the reflexes of the body. They also promote muscle development, as some of this mineral is stored in cells, which is important for periods of growth and development.

The reference value of the lylemia is between 3.5 mEq / L and 5.5 mEq / L. When this mineral is greater than or less than the reference value, it can cause health complications.

Excess potassium in the blood is called hyperkalaemia or hyperkalaemia and has the following characteristics:

Treatment of hyperkalaemia is done by eliminating potassium-rich foods from the diet and, in the most severe cases, medications may also be necessary in tablet or vein form, and it is necessary to remain in the hospital until the condition improves. . See what food should be like to reduce potassium.

Lack of potassium in the blood is known as hypokalaemia or hypokalaemia, a hydroelectrolytic disorder that occurs mainly in hospitalized people due to a decrease in potassium intake in the diet or due to excessive loss of urine or the gastrointestinal tract. Hypokalaemia is characterized by:

Treatment of low potassium levels depends on the cause of hypokalaemia, a person’s symptoms and potassium concentration in the blood, taking oral potassium supplements, and eating foods rich in this mineral usually indicated by the doctor, but in more severe cases, potassium may need to be administered directly into the vein.

People with symptoms of potassium changes should consult a gp for blood tests and determine whether or not potassium levels are adequate. If the test is modified, appropriate treatment should be followed in accordance with medical advice to avoid further complications.