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Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia - Frequently Asked Questions


Q: Which specialist treats hypokalemia?

A: Specialists in Internal Medicine treat hypokalemia. In an emergency situation, the critical care team may treat the condition.

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Q: What are the good dietary sources of potassium?

A: Good dietary sources of potassium include:

    Bananas Avocado Broccoli Fresh green vegetables Fish Dry fruits Almonds and other nuts Kidney beans Coconut water and Tomatoes

Q: Can hypokalemia lead to a seizure?

A: Hypokalemia is not associated with seizures. However seizures are known to occur in other electrolyte disturbances involving sodium, calcium and magnesium.

Examples of such conditions include renal tubular acidosis, cystic fibrosis, familial periodic paralysis, Gitelman syndrome and congenital chloride causing diarrhea.

Q: Will potassium supplements prevent attacks of familial periodic paralysis?

A: Potassium supplements may alleviate symptoms during an acute attack but not prevent future attacks. A drug called acetazolamide has been known to be effective in at least half the cases and is administered along with potassium supplements.

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