Question

Mr. E, age 53, has a history of alcoholism and went to his physician because of recent anorexia, nausea, and diarrhea, as well as heart palpitations and fatigue. He has been taking his diuretic tablet, but not his vitamin and mineral supplement. An ECG and blood tests indicate hypokalemia.
 

Discuss the possible factors contributing to his electrolyte imbalance and the rationale for his signs and symptoms.

What are the signs of hypokalemia, and why is it important to identify potassium imbalances quickly?

What is the role of potassium in cardiac function?

 

Answer 1

Ans) Contributing Factors to hypokalemia:

• vomiting or diarrhea.
• poor nutrition.
• alcohol use disorder.
• overhydration.
• thyroid, hypothalamic, or adrenal disorders.
• liver, heart, or kidney failure.

Low potassium (hypokalemia) has many causes. The most common cause is excessive potassium loss in urine due to prescription medications that increase urination. Also known as water pills or diuretics, these types of medications are often prescribed for people who have high blood pressure or heart disease.

8 Signs and Symptoms of Potassium Deficiency (Hypokalemia)

• Weakness and Fatigue
• Muscle Cramps and Spasms. Muscle cramps are sudden, uncontrolled contractions of the muscles
• Digestive Problems
• Heart Palpitations
• Muscle Aches and Stiffness
• Tingling and Numbness
• Breathing Difficulties.
• Mood Changes.

. A low potassium level has many causes but usually results from vomiting, diarrhea, adrenal gland disorders, or use of diuretics. A low potassium level can make muscles feel weak, cramp, twitch, or even become paralyzed, and abnormal heart rhythms may develop.

Potassium is a mineral that is crucial for normal cell function in the body, including heart muscle cells. The body gets potassium through foods.

Potassium and sodium concentrations play a crucial role in electric signalfunctioning of the heart'smiddle thick muscle layer, known as the myocardium.