Do I have an electrolyte imbalance (Type I Diabetic)?

First off, let me say I am a 23 year old male, Type I Diabetic with average control of sugars with a HbA1c of 7.6%. I am Insulin dependant using Pump Therapy.

I recently had a blood test indicating all of my electrolyte levels were below normal. My doctor thought nothing of it, but I thought it wouldn't hurt to ask here for a second opinion.

Can anybody tell me HOW abnormal the following values are:
Sodium: 133mmol/L (normal 135-145)
Potassium: 3.2mmol/L (normal 3.5-5.0)
Chloride: 96mmol/L (normal 101-111)

Are my levels abnormally low to the point they should be corrected? Would my levels cause symptoms?

The reason I ask is, I do have muscle ache issues, dizziness, and general fatigue. I also have a number of stomach issues including constant heartburn (treated with Rabeprazole), bloating and gas. Could electrolytes be the cause given my numbers?

Also, what could the cause be of lowered electrolytes? I do not experience any vomiting, diarrhea nor do I take drugs known to cause low electrolytes.

I understand Insulin can affect Potassium, but to what degree?

Thank you in advance for all input.

[PennyDawn]

I know with my husband that a too low of a potassium level can cause one to go into acoma when one goes into ketoacitosis, I am not sure what is a good level of potassium but maybe ask your doctor about that.

[Joeyez]

Sorry this is a bit late -- but I'll post anyway.  All of your values are a bit low, but the potassium is of most concern.  Low levels of potassium, an electrolyte, can cause many symptoms:

* Muscle cramps/aches
* Fatigue, malaise and intermittent dizziness
* Abnormal heart rhythms if the deficiency is not corrected (known medically as arrhythmia)

Your symptoms could be due to lower than normal potassium and sodium.  I advise seeing that same MD for follow up.  Increase potassium by eating potatoes, drinking orange juice, and use a multivitamin with potassium.

[Sunny86]

Although the Potassium level doesn't seem like it's that much different than normal levels, it is actually VERY dangerous to have your level at 3.2. Even the slightest change in potassium can cause your heart go out of wack or even to stop it completely.

Cantaloupe is actually very high in potassium so I'd recommend anyone with hypokalemia to eat cantaloupe. (also: bananas, OJ, potatoes).

Also, for anyone reading this, if you have any kind of kidney disease or kidney insufficiency, talk to your doctor about diet therapy. If you do have kidney problems, Dr.s will more than likely tell you to DECREASE Potassium intake because your kidneys won't excrete it properly.

...and... If taking Aldactone, Midamor,or Dyrenium (all Potassium sparing diuretics) you should DECREASE Potassium in your diet.

The goal: to maintain Potassium levels at 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L   VERY IMPORTANT!