Hypokalemic Paralysis in Emergency Department –A Case Report

Hypokalemic (hypopotassemia) periodic paralysis (HPP) is the most common form of periodic paralysis (PP) and may occur as primary and secondary. The primary hereditary form is the most common cause of HPP. A number of conditions can cause secondary HPP. These include: thyrotoxicosis, hyperaldosteronism, renal tubuler acidosis, Licorice overconsumption and inadequate potassium intake or increased potassium excretion. Patients can be presented with muscle weakness, nausea and vomiting due to hypopotassemia. Decreased motor activity and loss of sensation in physical examination and ST-T abnormalities, arrhythmias and U waves can be observed in electrocardiogram (ECG). If the patient is not responsive to oral potassium replacement therapy, intravenous infusion is performed. A diet rich in potassium but poor in salt and carbohydrate, avoiding strenuous exercise and stress are advised to the patients [1-3].