Hypokalaemia and Hyperkalaemia

Question 1

Hypokalaemia

Answer 1

Very low levels of potassium in the blood

Question 2

Causes of hypokalaemia

Answer 2

• decreased oral intake - rare and often compensated for by the kidneys
• increased cellular uptake - occurs in alkalosis//hypothermia//B2 agonist use
• increased loss of K+ - diarrhoea, vomitting, diuretics, hyperaldosteronism

Question 3

Symptoms of hypokalaemia

Answer 3

1. muscle weakness/cramps
2. Paraesthesia - abnormal tingling sensation
3. Cardiac arrythmias

Question 4

Hyperkalemia

Answer 4

• high potassium levels >5 mnol

* increased cell release or decreased excretion

Question 5

Treatment of hypokalaemia

Answer 5

• treatment with oral/IV potassium

- Hypomagnesium often coexists

Question 6

Symptoms of hyperkalaemia

Answer 6

• muscular weakness

* cardiac weakness