hypokalemisk

Hypokalemisk is an adjective used in Scandinavian medical terminology to describe conditions, signs, or processes related to hypokalemia, a lower-than-normal level of potassium in the blood. In English, the corresponding term is hypokalemic. Potassium is a vital intracellular cation essential for muscle and nerve function, cardiac conduction, and fluid balance. Normal serum potassium is typically about 3.5–5.0 mmol/L; hypokalemia is diagnosed when levels fall below this range.

Causes of hypokalemia include renal and extrarenal losses, shifts of potassium into cells, and rarely inadequate intake. Renal losses commonly result from loop or thiazide diuretic use, mineralocorticoid excess, or certain genetic tubulopathies. Extrarenal losses occur with vomiting, diarrhea, laxative abuse, or ileostomy. Shifts into cells can be triggered by insulin, alkalosis, or β-adrenergic stimulation. Conditions such as Bartter and Gitelman syndromes, catabolic states, and certain medications can also contribute.

Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening and may include muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, constipation, and, in the heart, arrhythmias. Electrocardiogram findings can show flattened T waves, the appearance of U waves, and ST-segment changes; severe hypokalemia increases the risk of dangerous arrhythmias.

Management focuses on correcting the potassium deficit and treating the underlying cause. Potassium can be given orally or intravenously, with careful monitoring of serum potassium and, when needed, magnesium levels, which can affect potassium repletion. Rapid correction is avoided to prevent overcorrection and electrolyte imbalance.