Hypokalemia natural history

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2] Aida Javanbakht, M.D.

Overview[edit | edit source]

If left untreated, hypokalemia may present as nausea, vomiting that progresses to develop ileus, muscle cramps, rhabdomyolysis and polyuria leading to dehydration. Persistent hypokalemia may lead to ventricular ectopy. Complications of hypokalemia include paralysis, arrhythmias, rhabdomyolysis and ileus. Prognosis of hypokalemia depends upon the underlying condition.

Natural History[edit | edit source]

If left untreated, hypokalemia may present as nausea, vomiting that progresses to develop ileus, muscle cramps, rhabdomyolysis and polyuria leading to dehydration. Persistently low serum potassium levels may lead to EKG changes for example, ventricular ectopy (Premature ventricular contractions, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, U waves, prolonged QT interval).

Complications[edit | edit source]

Possible complications include ^[1]:

• Paralysis: In severe cases
• Arrhythmia
• Heart block and cardiac arrest
• Rhabdomyolysis 
• Hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients
• Constipation

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis depends on underlying condition that cause hypokalemia. Potassium supplements may correct the problem. In severe cases, without proper treatment a severe drop in potassium levels can lead to serious heart rhythm problems that can be fatal.

References[edit | edit source]

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