Clinical Manifestations of Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia, which refers to a serum potassium ion concentration below the normal range, is a common electrolyte disturbance. Its clinical manifestations primarily involve the neuromuscular system, with the most common symptom being limb weakness ranging from mild fatigue to complete paralysis, especially in the lower limbs. Patients may experience muscle pain, twitching, or cramps. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress. Regarding the digestive system, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, and constipation may occur, which are associated with dysfunction of intestinal smooth muscles.

Regarding the cardiovascular system, hypokalemia can cause arrhythmias, such as tachycardia and ventricular premature contractions. In severe cases, life-threatening symptoms such as ventricular flutter and ventricular fibrillation may occur, although these symptoms are relatively uncommon. Regarding the kidneys, severe hypokalemia can lead to polyuria and increased nocturia; patients may develop polyuria or even anuria, and long-term cases can progress to renal tubular acidosis. Metabolically, hypokalemia can lead to arrhythmias such as tachycardia and ventricular premature contractions, with severe cases potentially presenting life-threatening symptoms such as ventricular flutter and ventricular fibrillation.