Uncommon Infant and Newborn Problems—Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that your body needs to work properly. It is a type of electrolyte. It helps your nerves to function and muscles to contract. It helps your heartbeat stay regular. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium’s harmful effects on blood pressure.

Many people get all the potassium they need from what they eat and drink. Sources of potassium in the diet include

Leafy greens, such as spinach and collards
Fruit from vines, such as grapes and blackberries
Root vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes
Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruit

Your kidneys help to keep the right amount of potassium in your body. If you have chronic kidney disease, your kidneys may not remove extra potassium from the blood. Some medicines also can raise your potassium level. You may need a special diet to lower the amount of potassium that you eat.

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Low potassium level (Medical Encyclopedia)
Potassium in diet (Medical Encyclopedia)
Potassium test (Medical Encyclopedia)
Potassium urine test (Medical Encyclopedia)

It can be scary when your baby is sick, especially when it is not an everyday problem like a cold or a fever. You may not know whether the problem is serious or how to treat it. If you have concerns about your baby’s health, call your health care provider right away.

Learning information about your baby’s condition can help ease your worry. Do not be afraid to ask questions about your baby’s care. By working together with your health care provider, you make sure that your baby gets the best care possible.