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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]
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).
Anatomy of a Nephron; functional unit of the kidney [1]. Gitelman syndrome (GS) is an autosomal recessive kidney tubule disorder characterized by low blood levels of potassium and magnesium, decreased excretion of calcium in the urine, and elevated blood pH. [2]
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]
Bartter syndrome (BS) is a rare inherited disease characterised by a defect in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, which results in low potassium levels (hypokalemia), [2] increased blood pH , and normal to low blood pressure. There are two types of Bartter syndrome: neonatal and classic.
Electrocardiography (ECG) may show whether the elevated potassium levels are affecting the conduction system of the heart, as suggested by the presence of T wave changes or broadening of the QRS complex. [21] Low calcium levels may be present in the initial stage due to binding of free calcium to damaged muscle cells. [4]
Both sweet and tart cherries are low in calories come with lots of nutrients, including fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, so they may improve sleep.
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 ...