Causes

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Low potassium (hypokalemia) has many causes. The most common cause is excessive potassium loss in urine due to prescription medications that increase urination. Also known as water pills or diuretics, these types of medications are often prescribed for people who have high blood pressure or heart disease.

Vomiting, diarrhea or both also can result in excessive potassium loss from the digestive tract. Occasionally, low potassium is caused by not getting enough potassium in your diet.

Causes of potassium loss include:

  1. Alcohol use
  2. Chronic kidney disease
  3. Diabetic ketoacidosis (in which the body has high levels of blood acids called ketones)
  4. Diarrhea
  5. Diuretics (water retention relievers)
  6. Excessive laxative use
  7. Excessive sweating
  8. Folic acid deficiency
  9. Primary aldosteronism
  10. Some antibiotic use
  11. Vomiting

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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June 23, 2022

See also

  1. Primary aldosteronism