Hyperkalemia natural history, complications, and prognosis

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Priyamvada Singh, M.B.B.S. [2] Jogeet Singh Sekhon

Overview

Extreme degrees of hyperkalemia are considered a medical emergency.If left untreated hyperkalemia can cause cardiac rhythm disorders and eventually cardiac arrest leading to death. Complications that can develop as a result of hyperkalemia are arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, and neuromuscular weakness. The outcome with this condition varies. In some people, the disorder causes deadly complications, while others tolerate it well.

Natural History

Extreme degrees of hyperkalemia are considered a medical emergency.If left untreated hyperkalemia can cause cardiac rhythm disorders and eventually cardiac arrest leading to death.

Complications

Complications that can develop as a result of hyperkalemia are

• Arrhythmias
• Cardiac arrest
• Changes in nerve and muscle (neuromuscular) control resulting in paralysis

Prognosis

The outcome with this condition varies. In some people it can lead to fatal cardiac arrhythmias if not controlled in time,while in some no complications develop.It depends on the levels of potassium in the blood.