Hypokalemia
Hypokalemia Causes
The most obvious cause of hypokalemia may be insufficient consumption of potassium as a result of a low potassium diet. This is however a rare cause of hypokalemia. A more common cause is heavy loss of potassium due to heavy fluid loss. Individuals may lose potassium during vomiting, excessive perspiration, diarrhea or during surgical procedures. Some medicines such as diuretics and laxatives may also lead to heavy potassium loss. Diabetic ketoacidosis can also cause potassium loss though rarely. Other cause of hypokalemia are: hypomagnesia, high aldosterone levels resulting from certain diseases, congenital defects of the salt transporters to the kidneys, congenital defects of transporters and channels of ion in the muscles,
Hypokalemia Definition
Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low concentration of potassium in the blood. About 95% of the potassium in the human body are found inside cells, the rest are found in the blood. Potassium is a very important mineral. It is responsible for muscle and nerve actions.
Hypokalemia Symptoms and Signs
Mild hypokalemia often shows no symptoms. High blood pressure is observed with some patients as a result of cardiac arythmia. In its moderate stage, hypokalemia can cause muscle cramps and weakness and even constipation. In its severe stage, hypokalemia may result to flaccid paralysis, tetany and hyporeflexia. Patients with hypokalemia can also experience respiratory depression as a result of severe impairment of skeletal muscle functions.
Hypokalemia Treatment
The first thing done to hypokalemia patients is the removal of the cause. Treatment also depends on severity. Supplementation with potassium chloride is usually given to patients with hypokalemia.
Drugs used for treatment of Hypokalemia
Aldactone