hypokalemia

[hahy-poh-key-lee-mee-uh]

noun

Pathology.

1. an abnormally low concentration of potassium in the blood.

Other Word Forms

• hypokalemic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypokalemia¹

1945–50; hypo- + New Latin kal ( ium ) potassium (derivative of kali, as in alkali ) + -emia

Example Sentences

He said studies had shown glycyrrhizic acid - the active ingredient in liquorice - could cause "hypertension, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, fatal arrhythmias, and renal failure" - all of which were seen in this patient.

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Today overhydration and sudden death from hyponatremia and hypokalemia are serious problems, not dehydration.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Symptoms of hypokalemia can include abnormal heart rhythms, according to the U.S.

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He wrote: "Further investigation revealed a recent change to a liquorice-containing candy as the likely cause of his hypokalemia."

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