Is low potassium linked to presyncope and tunnel vision?

Question

Hi doctor,

A few weeks ago, I experienced presyncope. I felt a palpitation, and when I checked my pulse, it was not beating for a few seconds. I then got tunnel vision and put my head between my legs. When I came back up, I saw stars. I went to the ER and had a normal EKG. They found that my potassium was 3.1, which is low, and said that was probably the cause.

I followed up with a cardiologist (I have no personal heart issues but a strong family history of CAD), and he did another normal EKG. He said it probably was the potassium and put me on a supplement. However, my primary care doctor said that this was ridiculous and that there was no way a potassium level of 3.1 could cause this. Upon internet searching, I also find it hard to believe that there is no underlying cardiac issue. Is it possible for a potassium level of 3.1 to cause something like that? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It can precipitate arrhythmias in the heart, which can manifest similarly. However, 3.1 is not very low to cause arrhythmias in a healthy heart. So, it is worthwhile to evaluate you as we can not explain it just because of potassium. Was there just a presyncope or repeated episodes? Were there any palpitations associated? Do you get palpitations in between, and sometimes the heart is racing, or the heart pauses for some time? What is the usual heart rate? Is it on the lower side? You may have cardiac arrhythmia rather than CAD (coronary artery disease) in you, considering your age. I hope this helps you. Get back if you have any doubts.

Thank you.