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Causes
By Mayo Clinic staffLow potassium (hypokalemia) has many causes. The most common cause of low potassium is excessive potassium loss in urine or from the digestive tract such as due to:
- Certain diuretics — water pills
- Diarrhea
- Eating disorders
- Excessive use of laxatives
- Kidney failure, chronic
- Primary aldosteronism
- Vomiting
Rarely, low potassium is due to not getting enough potassium in your diet.
Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
