Potassium deficiency can lead to hypokalemia — low blood potassium, less than 3.5 millimoles per liter of blood (mmol/L) — which can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including tiredness, loss of focus, loss of appetite, vomiting, and muscle weakness.[1][2][3] In more serious cases, hypokalemia can also lead to heart arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation),[2][3][4][5][6] and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular-related mortality.[7][8][9]
What are the signs and symptoms of potassium deficiency?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia, can result in symptoms such as tiredness, loss of focus, loss of appetite, vomiting, and muscle weakness, and severe cases can potentially lead to heart arrhythmias and increased cardiovascular mortality risk. Blood potassium levels of less than 3.5 mmol/L indicate hypokalemia.