Kidneys cause low K+ levels?

[KDCwv32]

I was wondering if my kidneys cause lower K+ levels. It was 3.4 barely low with the min being 3.5. They told me to drink OJ or eat bananas and the next time my K was normal. My next blood test I had 3.2 K level. I drink plenty of water because my kidneys seem to filter better when hydrated. Could this cause the problem too? Am I drinking too much water?

[Theresa Jones, RN]

Hi KDCwv32 ,
Generally speaking, depleted potassium levels may be caused by severe episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, diuretic medications, impaired renal function, acute renal failure, inadequate diet, etc. To my knowledge I am not aware of water intake affecting potassium levels. A physicians evaluation can determine the causative factor in relationship to the potassium levels. Best wishes.
Sincerely,
Theresa Jones, RN