Disorders of potassium.
Potassium disorders are the most common electrolyte abnormality identified in clinical practice. Presenting symptoms are similar for both hypo- and hyperkalemia, primarily affecting the cardiac, neuromuscular, and gastrointestinal systems. Generally, mild hypokalemia is the most common potassium disorder seen clinically;however, severe complications can occur. Hyperkalemia is less common but more serious, especially if levels are rising rapidly. The etiologies and treatments for both hypo- and hyperkalemia are discussed, with special emphasis on the role medications play in the etiologies of each.
Section of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA. tjschaefer@pol.net
Timothy J
TJ
Schaefer
Robert W
RW
Wolford
D058186:Acute Kidney Injury / Q000150:complications; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D004562:Electrocardiography; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D006801:Humans; D006947:Hyperkalemia / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D007008:Hypokalemia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D011188:Potassium / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology* / Q000627:therapeutic use
D011188:Potassium