Potassium is one of the body's major ions.
The ratio of intracellular to extracellular potassium is important in determining the cellular membrane potential. Small changes in the extracellular potassium level can have profound effects on the function of the cardiovascular and the neuromuscular systems. The kidney determines potassium homeostasis since excess potassium is excreted in the urine. Severe hypokalemia is relatively uncommon. The history may be vague.