Potassium is necessary for muscle and nerve function in the body. Low potassium, or hypokalemia, can result in dangerous arrhythmias (heart rate abnormalities) and rhabdomyolysis (destruction of muscle tissue). Fortunately, the treatment for hypokalemia is relatively simple.
Causes
Most cases of hypokalemia are due to renal losses. Typically this occurs when the hormones that signal the kidneys to excrete potassium are activated unnecessarily, such as in Conn's syndrome. Hypokalemia can also be caused by excessive vomiting, diarrhea or acid-base disorders.
Effects On The heart
Potassium is one of the main ions necessary for cardiac function. Low potassium levels can cause abnormalities in the rhythm of the heart and increase the risk of toxicity from taking the drug digitalis.
Effects On The Muscles
Fatigue, muscle pain and weakness (especially in the lower extremities) are frequent symptoms of hypokalemia. In extreme cases, low potassium levels can even result in paralysis.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Hypokalemia inhibits the intestine's ability to move food through the digestive system, resulting in constipation. Severe cases may result in an emergent condition called paralytic ileus.
Treatment
Most cases of low potassium respond well to oral replacement with either potassium citrate or potassium bicarbonate. In severe cases or if a patient is unable to take drugs by mouth, intravenous potassium replacement may be necessary.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2010;" Stephen J. McPhee, Maxine A. Papadakis, Eds.; 2010
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 17e;" Anthony S. Fauci, Eugene Braunwald, Dennis L. Kasper, Stephen L. Hauser, Dan L. Longo, J. Larry Jameson, and Joseph Loscalzo, Eds.; 2008
- "Principles of Critical Care, 3e;" Jesse B. Hall, Gregory A. Schmidt, Lawrence D.H. Wood; 2005
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