HYPERKALEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hyperkalemia is a medical condition characterized by an elevated level of potassium in the blood, typically exceeding 5.5 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including maintaining proper nerve and muscle cell function, regulating heart rhythm, and balancing body fluids. In normal physiological conditions, the kidneys help eliminate excess potassium from the body. However, in instances of hyperkalemia, the kidneys fail to excrete the excess potassium effectively, resulting in an accumulation of potassium ions in the bloodstream.
The symptoms of hyperkalemia may vary depending on the severity of the condition, but can include muscle weakness, fatigue, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, numbness or tingling sensations, and even paralysis. Severe cases of hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.
Hyperkalemia can arise from various causes, including kidney dysfunction, certain medications (e.g., angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, potassium-sparing diuretics), acid-base imbalances, excessive intake of potassium-rich foods, tissue damage, or inadequate elimination of potassium due to hormonal disorders. The condition is usually diagnosed through blood tests that measure the level of potassium in the serum.
Treatment options for hyperkalemia aim to stabilize potassium levels and minimize symptoms. This may involve dietary changes to reduce potassium intake, modifying medications, administering medications to remove potassium from the body, or in severe cases, emergency interventions such as dialysis. Managing underlying conditions contributing to hyperkalemia is usually essential in preventing its recurrence.
Common Misspellings for HYPERKALEMIA
Etymology of HYPERKALEMIA
The word "hyperkalemia" is derived from Greek roots. It consists of three different parts:
1. "Hyper-" (ὑπέρ): Meaning "above" or "excessive" in Greek.
2. "Kalium" (κάλιον): Referring to the chemical element "potassium" in Greek.
3. "-emia" (-αιμία): A suffix in medical terminology that denotes a condition in the blood.
When combined, "hyperkalemia" represents a medical term used to describe a higher than normal level of potassium in the blood.
Similar spelling words for HYPERKALEMIA
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