Synonyms Hypokalemia, potassium deficiencyPotassium is an electrolyte (bulk element) that is important above all for the excitability of muscle and nerve cells and for fluid and hormone balance. It must be supplied to the body regularly from outside, as a small amount is excreted every day. Potassium is found in large quantities in meat, fruit … Potassium deficiency
Origin A potassium deficiency can be caused by a loss of potassium via the kidney into the urine is the most common reason for a potassium deficiency. This can have several causes. In most cases, certain draining drugs (diuretics) are decisive, especially the frequently prescribed loop diuretics (e.g. furosemide, torasemide) and the group of thiazides … Origin | Potassium deficiency
Symptoms In general, a potassium deficiency lowers the excitability of the cells. Muscles and nerves are particularly affected by this, as they are particularly dependent on excitation. A slight potassium deficiency (3.5-3.2 mmol/l) is usually not noticeable in healthy hearts. From a potassium blood value of less than 3.2 mmol/l, physical symptoms are to be … Symptoms | Potassium deficiency
Prognosis Most cases of potassium deficiency are mild in nature. There is hardly any danger for healthy people.Only in the case of pre-existing heart diseases and severe potassium deficiency is there a danger to life, especially due to cardiac arrhythmia. Potassium deficiency after surgery After surgical interventions, it can happen that an incorrectly high potassium … Prognosis | Potassium deficiency
