In: Nursing
Fill in the blank with the electrolyte that lithium depletes from the body.
Lithium depletes the Potassium Levels.
The lithium and potassium concentrations are always in a balancing act in the human body. Both are trace elements which perform necessary functions in human physiology. However lithium can cause potassium levels to fall, resulting in serious problems such as hypokalemia (potassium deficiency). When this happens, you may feel weak and your cellular functions may be impaired.
Lithium may also substitute for potassium in nerve tissues that conduct electrical stimulation to muscles. This cause muscle cramps and pain.An important electrolyte in the human body is potassium. It takes on a positive charge and become K+. We get potassium in our bodies generally from dietary sources such as: