Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis
Description
An inherited disorder characterized by low potassium levels in the blood and muscle weakness. The symptoms come and go and the disease usually manifests itself during the teenage years. The episodes last hours to a day. This disorder is rare and is an autosomal dominant disorder meaning if only one parent gives the affected gene to a patient the patient will have the disease.
Symptoms
Weakness (most commonly in the hips and shoulders), intermittent weakness, excessive weakness after exercise, weakness after fasting, weakness after eating a high carbohydrate meal, weakness triggered by alcohol.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include the measurement of the potassium level during an episode of weakness.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- EKG
Treatment
Immediate treatment of life threatening breathing problems and/or heart arrhythmia may be needed. The potassium will be repleted orally and/or with intravenous potassium. The medications acetazolamide, triamterene, and spironolactone can reduce recurrences.
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