Hypokalemia: Manifestations Flashcards
what are 4 manifestations of hypokalemia?
- kidneys
- GI tract
- skeletal muscles
- CV system
when do people usually show signs of hypokalemia?
when potassium levels fall below 3.0 mmol/L an signs are usually gradual in onset
- detecting the problem may take time
when kidneys try to conserve potassium, what happens to the urine?
inability for them to concentrate urine
what happens to the GI tract when there is a potassium deficit in the GI tract?
alters normal peristalsis
what symptoms occur when there is a potassium deficit in the GI tract?
anorexia, nausea an vomiting
decrease in smooth muscle activity can cause what symptoms?
constipation or paralytic ileus
abnormal muscle contractility in skeletal muscles can cause what symptoms?
fatigue, weakness an muscle cramping
what happens to cardiac function when there is a potassium deficit?
MOST SERIOUS
- too little potassium interferes with normal electrical activity an contractility
what cardiac symptoms occur with a potassium deficit?
postural hypotension an cardiac arrhythmias
