Postassium, nutrition ?

[Blue727]

I have always had a low "normal" range potassium level, but I have every symptom of having a potassium deficiency.  Would it be alright to take potassium pills for awhile to see if it helps?  My levels have always been declining and are now at 3.7 on a range of 3.5-5.0 mmol/L.

I'm not sure you can answer these next few questions, but thought I would ask.  I have always had a highest on the range or over C02 and P02 levels, with a homocysteine level of 45.4 with the highest range being 11.8.  My iron is always high as well.  I wanted to know if there is any correlation to these and what it might be caused by.  I had low B12 (253), took shots for one month and was up to 1667.  My symptoms are very similiar to low potassium, hypoglycemia, high blood pressure and anemia, but with the high iron, I don't think anemia is a possibility.  Any suggestions on tests to get and could I have anemia or hypoglycemia with high iron?  Thanks!

[SillyHeart]

Blue, I'm just like you.  My potassium ALWAYS runs barely above or just below normal.  I get symptomatic when it's at its lowest, but my doctors are totally unconcerned and not at all interested in exploring the problem.

[Renee Radenberg]

There are different types of anemia and having low iron is one type of anemia called Iron deficiency anemia. You stated that you had Vitamin B12 shots at one times due to levels had been very low. Pernicious anemia is a Vitamin B12 deficiency and blood tests can show high iron. I suggest you have your MD do an iron profile blood work with Vitamin B12 to see if you have an anemia and which type.
As for potassium, I recommend you increase potassium daily in your diet. Eat orange juice, bananas, milk, fruits, and potatoes. There are potential dangers of self-dosing with potassium supplementation. I do not know your medical history and recommend you speak with your MD about potassium supplements if you are concerned with your levels.