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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Could Cause Depressed Potassium Level?

My mom (81) is in the hospital - her potassium level is very low. It was 3.1 this morning. She is on an IV potassium drip and very sleepy. We can't get her to wake up. Should we be concerned? The nurse said she would call the doctor, but he hasn't shown up yet. Thank you.
Wed, 30 Apr 2014
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi dear.Thanks for writing on HCM. Normal range of potassium in blood is 4.5-5.5 mEq/l.Tiredness/fatigue, sleepiness is commonly seen due to low serum potassium levels and this comes down once the potassium level are corrected to normal limits.I were to examine her though her serum potassium levels are low. Donot panic. Let your nurse call the doctor and meanwhile let the infusion flow. She shall get well soon.
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What Could Cause Depressed Potassium Level?

Hi dear.Thanks for writing on HCM. Normal range of potassium in blood is 4.5-5.5 mEq/l.Tiredness/fatigue, sleepiness is commonly seen due to low serum potassium levels and this comes down once the potassium level are corrected to normal limits.I were to examine her though her serum potassium levels are low. Donot panic. Let your nurse call the doctor and meanwhile let the infusion flow. She shall get well soon.