Final answer:
Potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia, can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, irritability, slow heart rate, flabby muscles, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias and paralysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common symptoms include muscle weakness, irritability, slow heart rate, and in severe cases, can lead to more serious conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias and paralysis. Potassium deficiency can occur due to decreased intake, starvation, vomiting, diarrhea, or alkalosis. When potassium levels are too low, it can also negatively impact muscle tone, making the muscles flabby, particularly noticeable in the face, hands, and feet. A lack of potassium can also hinder normal cellular functions, potentially leading to muscle spasms in the extremities due to electrolyte imbalance.