Potassium is the principle cation in intracellular fluid... it acts with sodium and chloride to regulate osmotic pressure and acid-base balance. It must be properly balanced in the diet with calcium and magnesium. It is essential for muscular excitability and plays a role in conduction over neural tissue. In cases of diarrhea, the level of potassium generally drops. It does the same when the patient takes diuretics. It can occur after the onset of diabetic acidosis. It is denoted by muscular weakness, thirst, confusion, and dizziness. In extreme cases it can cause renal (kidney) failure.
