Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Hypokalemia
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Hypokalemia: Low blood potassium.
Potassium is the major positive ion (cation) found inside of cells. The chemical notation for potassium is K+.
The proper level of potassium is essential for normal cell function. An abnormal decrease (or increase) of potassium can profoundly affect the nervous system and heart, and when extreme, can be fatal.
The normal blood potassium level is 3.5 - 5.0 milliEquivalents/liter (mEq/L), or in international units, 3.5 - 5.0 millimoles/liter (mmol/L). See also: Potassium balance.
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