Hypokalemia (Low Blood Potassium)
Description
Low potassium levels in the blood. Hypokalemia is caused by: 1) medications, most commonly diuretics; 2) kidney disease; 3) diarrhea; 4) vomiting; 5) eating disorders (bulimia). The body requires potassium for muscle contraction (including the heart), and for other important bodily functions. The kidneys control the concentration of potassium through the excretion of urine.
Symptoms
Heart arrhythmias, weakness, fainting, muscle twitching, constipation, paralysis.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to determine the cause of the disorder will be done.
Standard Workup
- CBC
- Chem 12
- EKG
Treatment
Treatment includes: reversing the cause of the low potassium, and repleting the potassium orally and/or with intravenous potassium.
Related Videos
Hypokalemia: Symptoms and Treatment
hypokalemia...
Acute Care Facilities
Other Providers Treating this Disease
Medications Treating This Disease
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Hypokalemia (Low blood potassium)?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.