Hypokaliemia, also known as hypokaliemia, is the situation in which a small amount of potassium is found in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness, cramps and changes in heartbeat, for example, and can occur as a result of laxatives, frequent vomiting or as a result of certain medications.
Potassium is an electrolyte that is easily found in a variety of foods, such as bananas, pumpkin seeds, orange juice and carrots, and is essential for muscle function and the transmission of nerve impulses.Low levels of this electrolyte in the blood can cause some symptoms and have long-term consequences, so it is important that hypokaliemia is identified and treated properly according to the doctor’s advice.
- Decreased potassium in the blood can lead to the onset of mainly muscle symptoms.
- Such as cramps.
- Involuntary muscle contraction.
- Constant weakness and.
- In the most severe cases.
- Paralysis for example.
- In addition to shortness of breath and heart disturbances.
- Speed.
The normal amount of potassium in the blood is between 3.5 mEq/L and 5.5 mEq/L, less than 3.5 mEq/L characterizes hypokalaemia.Learn more about potassium.
The main causes that lead to a decrease in blood potassium are
Potassium deficiency in the blood is rarely linked to food, as most foods consumed daily contain adequate amounts of potassium.Know foods rich in potassium.
Diagnosis of hypokalaemia is based on the measurement of potassium in the blood and urine, in addition to the electrocardiogram, as there may be changes in heart rate.It is important that hypokalaemia is properly identified and treated, as very low potassium levels in the blood can cause muscle paralysis and kidney failure, for example, and this situation is quite serious for people with heart problems.
Treatment of low blood potassium levels is based on the cause of hypokalaemia, a person’s symptoms, and potassium concentration in the blood.Most of the time, the GP recommends the use of an oral potassium supplement, which should be used in small doses during a meal to avoid irritation of the gastrointestinal system.
In the most severe cases, i.e. when the potassium concentration is 2.0 mEq/L or less, it is recommended that potassium be administered directly into the vein so that the levels of this electrolyte are regulated more quickly.Potassium is also indicated directly in the vein.when there are very large changes in heart rate or even when using oral supplements, potassium levels continue to decline.