Do you know that around 10 million people die every year due to cancer? Are you having low potassium levels in your body and are worried that this could be the reason behind it? Well, worry no more, then, because we are going to clear all your doubts here.
Low potassium is not a direct sign of cancer, but it is usually associated with colon cancer. It is one of its very rare symptoms. Here we will learn about all the symptoms of colon cancer and ways to get rid of it as well.Moreover, we will also learn some practical methods to increase your potassium levels.
After going through this comprehensive guide, you will know all about potassium and its relationship with cancer. Stay with us as we start uncovering its details.
How Low Potassium Is A Sign Of Cancer?
Low potassium levels basically mean an electrolyte imbalance. There are different electrolytes in our body. These include sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These help our body perform nerve functions. So higher or lower amounts of these electrons mean an electrolyte imbalance.
Electrolyte imbalances in your body affect your cellular processes, which eventually result in cellular edema. This can affect your colon’s health and cause cancer. But unless you have noticed other symptoms of cancer except low potassium levels, you are probably safe. Here are the common symptoms that may be noticed in this condition:.
Symptoms Of Colon Cancer
Low potassium levels are not the only sign of colon cancer. These are several other signs and symptoms as well. Let’s check them out.
- Persistent abdominal discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
- Persistent constipation or diarrhea
- Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Narrow stools
- Cramping or gas pains
Other Causes Of Low Potassium Levels
There are several other causes of low potassium levels, except cancer. Here, we are going to list a few common causes of low potassium levels in the human body.
- Chronic kidney disease
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Laxatives
- Hypomagnesemia
- Sweating
- Eating disorders
- Vomiting
- Diuretics
- Genetic disorders
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Cushing syndrome
- Heavy alcohol drinking
- Inadequate potassium intake
- Antibiotics
- Certain medications
- Digestive disorders
- Folic acid deficiency
- Malnutrition
So unless you have been diagnosed and verified by a doctor that you have cancer, you don’t need to worry about it.
Colon Cancer Treatments
There are multiple treatment methods for colon cancer. Your doctor will suggest the most suitable method for you according to your needs. Following are some of the treatment options that are usually suggested to different patients going through this condition.
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Surgery
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Chemotherapy for colorectal cancer
- Adjuvant chemotherapy
- Capecitabine
- Fluorouracil
- Irinotecan hydrochloride
- Surgical care
How Do You Increase Potassium Levels In Your Body?
If it’s not cancer and you just have low potassium levels generally, then these tips are for you. Making these dietary changes will boost your potassium levels and help you maintain electrolyte balance. Let’s take a look at their details.
- Eat potassium-rich fruits like bananas, oranges, and sweet potatoes.
- Add more potassium-packed veggies to your diet, like spinach and tomatoes.
- Eat more yogurt and fish.
- Try to eat more avocados to boost your potassium.
- You may also take potassium supplements, but remember to consult with your doctor before using them. These may not be suitable for everyone.
- There are potassium-enriched salts. Use them instead of the usual one.
- Drink more coconut water if available. It is a natural source of potassium.
- Cook vegetables with minimal water. It helps retain their potassium content.
Risk Factors For Colon Cancer
The primary cause of colon cancer is still unknown, but there are several conditions in which people are more exposed to it than others. Here, we are going to list all those risk factors. You need to be more careful if you also fall into this category of risk factors. Follow the necessary precautions in advance to stay on the safe side. These risk factors include:
- People older than 50
- Having a family history of polyps or colon cancer
- Smoking
- Recreational drug usage
- Eating an unhealthy diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Being fat or obese
- Having a history of diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.
Final Words
Low potassium is not a proven sign of cancer, but electrolyte imbalance has been associated with cancer sometimes. But it is a serious health problem, whether it’s connected with cancer or not. It can affect the quality of your life and cause several problems.
If you face this problem, start by visiting a doctor and getting his diagnosis. Follow his prescribed treatments and instructions to get rid of it. You should generally try to keep your electrolytes balanced for good health as well.