Cramping and Muscle Weakness
Mentioned earlier, muscle cramping and weakness is usually what people will first notice, and this often leads to the discovery of mild hypokalemia. The reason you get muscle weakness and cramping is because potassium is necessary for proper muscle contractions. If you are low in potassium, the muscles will not only lose the ability to fire properly, but they won’t be getting enough nutrients to stay toned either. This may cause difficulty when holding objects or even when walking.
Twitching and cramping will vary. Oftentimes, the spasms occur in the legs. As levels continue to drop, muscle paralysis is possible. When the paralysis moves from the lower extremities into the chest, the diaphragm, which assists with breathing, can freeze up and the risk of respiratory failure skyrockets.
