Strange symptoms

[CareBayer]

First of all I'd like to say hello to all the posters in this forum. If anyone can help with my situation I'd greatly apprechiate it.

For the past 4 months I've had all these strange neurological symptoms. Pins and needles, burning, pricking, muscle spasms all over my body and muscle weakness in upper extremites especially my hands. Plus in the past 2 weeks extreme fatigue. I went to the ER a week ago and was diagnosed with low potassium. When I first started taking the potassium pills I felt alittle better. Now I feel even worse because it feels like I am losing the usage of my left arm. It feels so heavy like it has a rubberband around it My body feels like it always on. Sort of like its internally shaking. I am at a total lost. I cant get medical insurance until August from my employer. I dont know what to do.

[CareBayer]

Thank you Dr. Simran for reponding to my post. I've been drinking lots of orange juice, eating bananas and peaches which I hope will assist me getting my potassium regulated. Just one more question. How long does it take the body to absorb potassium? Thank you very much and God Bless You.

[dr_simran]

Hello Dear,
Known causes of potassium deficiency include excessive diarrhea and vomiting. The treatment in these cases should be for the diarrhea and vomiting, and ensuring there continues to be sufficient potassium in the diet. Mineral supplements may also be necessary. If the vomiting is self-induced, as in bulimia, psychiatric treatment may be indicated.
Hyperthyroidism, an illness of the thyroid, the main hormone producing gland, is also known to cause potassium deficiency. It, in turn, may be caused by an imbalance in other minerals similar to potassium such as magnesium, sodium and calcium. There are numerous treatments available for hyperthyroidism, all requiring some level of medical supervision.
Medications known to increase the likelihood of potassium deficiency include diuretics, cortisones and drugs for controlling high blood pressure. Alternate medications and/or treatments can be explored with a medical professional. If changing medications is not feasible, it may be necessary to supplement with potassium or mineral tablets.
It has been suggested that potassium deficiency may be a side effect of malfunctioning kidneys that contributes to rheumatoidal arthritis; currently there is little data to support this theory. However, hyperkalemia, or excessive potassium in the blood, has been linked to kidney problems.
Potassium is a mineral necessary to good health. It maintains the water and acid balance in blood and tissue cells, assists in muscle building, and transmits electrical signals between cells and nerves. Early symptoms of hypokalemia, or potassium deficiency, include dry skin, muscle weakness, fatigue and slow reflexes. If the deficiency develops rapidly, heart problems may result. Left unchecked, a condition known as hypokalemic paralysis may develop, in which the entire body goes stiff. This is a very serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Potassium is available in large quantities in many foods. Beef, chicken and fish such as cod, salmon, and sardines all have significant amounts of potassium. Good vegetable sources include peas, tomatoes, leafy greens, lima beans and potato skins. Bananas, melons, apricots and citrus fruits are also rich in potassium. Dried fruits such as mangoes and apricots provide concentrated sources of potassium, as do nuts and chocolate.
You should take a nutritious diet and consult your physician regarding the cause and its treatment.
Refer http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-effects-of-potassium-deficiency.htm
Best