Potassium Levels and Clinical Implications

Flashcards covering the ranges, symptoms, and causes for hypokalemia and hyperkalemia based on lecture transcripts.

Potassium normal range

A range between $3.5$ and $5.0$ or $5.3$

Hypokalemia

A condition where potassium levels are below $3.5$

Hyperkalemia

A condition where potassium levels are above $5.0$ or $5.3$

Hypokalemia symptoms

Muscle weakness, U-wave, constipation, and flat wave

Hyperkalemia symptoms

Peak T-wave, twitching, diarrhea, and dangerous dysrhythmias

Common causes of hypokalemia

Usually result from vomiting or diuretics

Common cause of hyperkalemia

Usually associated with a kidney problem

High potassium indicator

Cardiac issues, such as dangerous dysrhythmias, are associated with high levels of this electrolyte

Low potassium indicators

Characterized by a flat T-wave, weakness, and constipation