Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia, also spelled hypokalaemia, is a low level of potassium (K+) in the blood serum. Normal
potassium levels are between 3.5 and 5.0 mmol/L (3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L) with levels below 3.5 mmol/L
defined as hypokalemia. Mildly low levels do not typically cause symptoms. Symptoms may include
feeling tired, leg cramps, weakness, and constipation. It increases the risk of an abnormal heart rhythm
such as bradycardia and cardiac arrest.

Hypokalemia

Synonyms Hypopotassaemia, hypopotassemia

An ECG in a person with a potassium level of 1.1 meq/l showing the classical changes of ST segment
depression, inverted T waves, large U waves, and a slightly prolonged PR interval

Specialty Critical care medicine

Symptoms Feeling tired, leg cramps, weakness, constipation, abnormal heart rhythm

Complications Cardiac arrest

Causes Diarrhea, medications like furosemide and steroids, dialysis, diabetes insipidus,
hyperaldosteronism, hypomagnesemia, not enough intake in the diet

Diagnostic method Blood potassium < 3.5 mmol/L

Treatment Dietary change, supplements

Frequency 20% of people admitted to hospital

Causes of hypokalemia include diarrhea, medications like furosemide and steroids, dialysis, diabetes
insipidus, hyperaldosteronism, hypomagnesemia, and not enough intake in the diet. It is classified as
severe when levels are less than 2.5 mmol/L. Low levels can also be detected on an electrocardiogram
(ECG). Hyperkalemia refers to a high level of potassium in the blood serum.

The speed at which potassium should be replaced depends on whether or not there are symptoms or
ECG changes. Mildly low levels can be managed with changes in the diet. Potassium supplements can be
either taken by mouth or intravenously. If given by intravenous, generally less than 20 mmol are given
over an hour. High concentration solutions (>40 mmol/L) should be given in a central line if possible.
Magnesium replacement may also be required.
Hypokalemia is one of the most common water–electrolyte imbalances. It affects about 20% of people
admitted to hospital. The word "hypokalemia" is from hypo- means "under"; kalium meaning potassium,
and -emia means "condition of the blood".