Other coexisting diseases and situations may contribute to iron deficiency. Blood levels can be easily and accurately measured. Standard doses are commonly given one to three times per day, depending on needs and tolerance. If a patient does not tolerate oral iron, it may be administered by injection, although intravenous administration is occasionally associated with anaphylactic reactions and other serious side effects. Potassium deficiency may occur as a result of vomiting, diarrhea or prednisone therapy.
Blood levels are an accurate reflection of body levels.
Oral potassium is easily given in 10 or 30 milliequivalent tablets or other forms and is generally well tolerated. Magnesium deficiency is a result of poor absorption resulting from past surgical resections, chronic diarrhea or fistula losses. Serum levels reflect approximately 10 percent of body stores and are a gross estimate of body magnesium levels. Magnesium can be supplemented in the form of magnesium oxide 400 mg tablets. Zinc and other trace element deficiencies are less well understood.