Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes, Clinical Manifestations, and Management
: Diuretic use (furosemide, thiazides), hyperaldosteronism, or renal tubular acidosis.
). Potassium is vital for maintaining cellular membrane potentials, particularly in cardiac and skeletal muscle. 1. Etiology (Causes)
: Rare in isolation but can occur with severe malnutrition or restricted diets.
: Medications like albuterol can lower serum potassium. Increased Loss :
: Increased risk of arrhythmias. ECG changes typically include: Flattening of the T-wave. Appearance of U-waves . ST-segment depression. Gastrointestinal : Constipation or paralytic ileus. 3. Diagnostic Approach