Potassium is vital for the normal operation of the nervous system, muscles and kidney function:

• Too little potassium in the bloodstream (hypokalaemia) causes weakness, fatigue, heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), paralysis, and kidney problems.
  
  
• Sometimes, this can occur during certain illnesses or treatment with water tablets (diuretics).
  
  
• Potassium chloride is in the class of drugs called potassium supplements that are used to prevent hypokalaemia.