What happens when extracellular concentration of potassium is too low?

Answer 1

Low extra-cellular potassium levels is called hypokalemia and is a potentially lethal condition. Most potassium is found intracellularly, but low levels extracellularly will affect the repolarization of cells (nerve and cardiac). You will see such symptoms as muscle weakness, confusion, arrhythmias and seizures. You will see EKG pathology such as ST depression, u waves and increaed QT intervals. Low K+ levels will cause hyponatremia. Hypokalemia can be caused by a number of factors such as excess sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, excess use of diuretics, laxatives, Amphotericin B (an antifungal), it is also seen in diabetic ketoacidosis, hypomagnesemia, Cushing's syndrome and other causes of hyperaldosterone secretion. Hypokalemia can and will cause death through cardiac electrical disturbances.

Answer 2

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