A Quick Reference on Hypokalemia

Abstract

Hypokalemia is more common than hyperkalemia and usually is caused by excessive losses of potassium from the kidneys or gastrointestinal tract. Serum potassium should be investigated in patients developing chronic or frequent vomiting or diarrhea, marked polyuria, muscle weakness, or unexpected cardiac arrhythmias, as well as in those undergoing therapy with insulin, diuretics, or total parenteral nutrition. Clinical signs develop when serum potassium deficit is moderate or severe.

Keywords: Cat; Dog; Fractional excretion; Hypokalemia; Potassium.