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Hypokalemia is a low level of potassium (K +) in the blood serum. [1] Mild low potassium does not typically cause symptoms. [3] Symptoms may include feeling tired, leg cramps, weakness, and constipation. [1] Low potassium also increases the risk of an abnormal heart rhythm, which is often too slow and can cause cardiac arrest. [1] [3]
Normal potassium levels are between 3.5 and 5.0 mmol/L (3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L) with levels below 3.5 mmol/L defined as hypokalemia. [21] [28] It is classified as severe when levels are less than 2.5 mmol/L. [21] Low levels may also be suspected based on an electrocardiogram (ECG). [21] Hyperkalemia is a high level of potassium in the blood serum. [21]
Low levels of potassium, phosphate, or magnesium before feeding [7] Or the patient has two or more of the following: Body mass index <18.5; Unintentional weight loss >10% in the past three to six months; Little or no nutritional intake for >5 days; History of alcohol misuse or drugs, including insulin, chemotherapy, antacids, or diuretics [7]
A new study suggests potassium supplementation after cardiac surgery is only needed if a patient has low potassium levels. This lower threshold could help decrease the risk of side effects and ...
Some guidelines recommend a bolus (initial large dose) of insulin of 0.1 units of insulin per kilogram of body weight. This can be administered immediately after the potassium level is known to be higher than 3.3 mmol/L; if the level is any lower, administering insulin could lead to a dangerously low potassium level (see below). [3]
3 Unusual Signs of Dehydration. Craving something sweet and/or salty can signal that your body needs more fluids. Fevers and chills: especially dangerous if the fever is over 101 F.
Hyponatremia, or low sodium, is the most commonly seen type of electrolyte imbalance. [12] [13] Treatment of electrolyte imbalance depends on the specific electrolyte involved and whether the levels are too high or too low. [3] The level of aggressiveness of treatment and choice of treatment may change depending on the severity of the ...
Some patients also take potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone to help maintain potassium levels. [11] Paralysis attacks can be managed by drinking one of various potassium salts dissolved in water (debate exists over which, if any one in particular, is best used, but potassium chloride and bicarbonate are common).