TITLE:
Hypokalemia Havoc: Unraveling the Mystery of Unexplained Potassium Depletion
AUTHORS:
Justin David Tse, Maryam Shams, Mushgan Nassiri, Jackson Wang
KEYWORDS:
Severe Hypokalemia, Electrolyte Derangements, Thiazide Diuretic Complications, Potassium Repletion
JOURNAL NAME:
Case Reports in Clinical Medicine,
Vol.13 No.8,
August
19,
2024
ABSTRACT: Hypokalemia, defined as serum potassium below 3.5 mEq/L, can lead to severe complications such as arrhythmias and muscle paralysis, potentially resulting in rhabdomyolysis. The etiology of hypokalemia is often multifactorial, involving but not limited to gastrointestinal losses, renal losses, medication effects, and inadequate dietary intake. Chronic heavy alcohol use, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and the use of diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) are also significant contributing factors. Effective management requires thorough evaluation and investigation to effectively treat a patient. This case report aims to illustrate the diagnostic challenges and comprehensive treatment approach required in a patient with multiple comorbidities and severe hypokalemia, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary and comprehensive approach to address all underlying causes.