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Hypokalaemia

April 24th, 2019
 
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Overview

Hypokalaemia is a reduction in the serum potassium concentration, which can predispose to cardiac complications.
  • Look For

  • Serum potassium <3.5mmol/L.

Aetiology

  • Causes of Hypokalaemia

  • Inadequate intake
  • GI loss - vomiting, high NG output, diarrhoea, fistula, laxative abuse
  • Renal loss - Conns, Cushings, ectopic ACTH, loop diuretics, osmotic diuresis, corticosteroids, hypomagnesaemia, RTA
  • Compartmental shift - alkalaemia, insulin, refeeding, beta agonists

Clinical Features

  • Signs and Symptoms

  • Weakness
  • Hypotonicity
  • Depression
  • Constipation
  • Ileus
  • ECG Changes

  • Increased PR interval
  • ST depression
  • Prominent U wave
  • T wave inversion
  • Clinical Features
     
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