3. Prolonged Vomiting
One of the most common causes of hypokalemia is nausea with prolonged vomiting. Nausea may be a result of any number of ailments or even due to a course of medication such as antibiotics. Vomiting is also common in those who are suffering from nausea due to pregnancy, illness, or drug use. There are many causes of vomiting, and not all of them are readily apparent. When a person vomits once or twice they tend to lose whatever is in their stomach at the time as well as some lingering stomach acids.
When a person suffers from prolonged bouts of vomiting, it makes it more likely that they will develop hypokalemia and other nutritional deficiencies. Your body gathers vital nutrients, minerals, and fuel for energy from your food.
When you are unable to keep anything down, your body will not get the nutrients it needs to function properly. In addition, vomiting also dehydrates the body and creates an electrolyte imbalance.