what cause low potassium
Low potassium can occur for many reasons. Use of water pills (diuretics), diarrhea, and chronic laxative abuse are the most common causes of low potassium levels. Illness and other medications may also lower potassium levels. Woman and African-Americans are at higher risk of developing hypokalemia. Other causes of hypokalemia include: Certain kidney disorders such as renal tubular acidosis (for example, chronic kidney failure and acute kidney failure)