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.
Schaefer
Timothy J
TJ
Section of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA. tjschaefer@pol.net
Wolford
Robert W
RW
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