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It is a result of a fluid/electrolyte imbalance, therefore the flu and any infections or diseases that can cause dehydration, can create an imbalance that could include hypokalemia (or perhaps hyperkalemia as well if the dehydration is severe enough to cause kidney malfunction).
The "electrolytes" are salts the body needs for proper functioning, including the conduction of electricity for proper function of muscle coordination, fluid absorption, nerve function, heart function, and fluid excretion. In addition to potassium (K+), the electrolytes include sodium (Na+), chloride, calcium, and magnesium. When there is not enough postassium in the blood, that condition is called hypokalemia. Too much postassium in the blood is called hyperkalemia.
The proper balance between the body fluids and these electrolytes can be disrupted when there is dehydration from vomiting, fever, and diarrhea that sometimes accompany the flu. Poor diet, other diseases, kidney malfunction, diuretics and other medications can also result in imbalances. There is a narrow margin of fluctuation tolerated by the body, and symptoms of this imbalance can be quickly realized with slight changes in fluid and electrolyte balances.
This is one reason why you hear the frequent advice to drink plenty of fluids when you have a cold or flu.
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Hyperkalemia or hypokalemia which is more serious?
hyperkalemia as it may cause heart arrythmias and sudden death, where hypokalemia generally just causes malaise, muscle weakness and tetany. hyperkalemia as it may cause heart arrythmias and sudden death, where hypokalemia generally just causes malaise, muscle weakness and tetany.
What can causes cramps and flu like symptoms during dialysis treatment?
i really do not know
How is digoxin associated with hypokalemia?
Usually, hyperkalemia is associated with usage of digoxin. This is due to the blocking action of digoxin on the Na/K ase which results in accumulation of extracellular K+.Most of the times, patients presenting with heart problems are already on diuretics before they are prescribed with digoxin. Diuretics cause hypokalemia as they result in excessive excretion of K+ from the body. Hypokalemia in turn causes digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity does not cause hypokalemia, but hypokalemia can worsen digoxin toxicity.
What disease process causes hypokalemia frequent UTI and kidney stone formation?
Type I Renal Tubular Acidosis
What is the effect on the heart function in the case of hypokalemia and hyperkalemia?
Hypokalemia and hyperkalmia both can have effects on the heart function. Hypokalemia and hyperkalemia can cause cardiac arriythmias.
What causes flu?
u did your mom
What causes you to gag?
stomach flu.
What causes hypkalemia?
There are many different things that can cause hypokalemia. Some of these things include antibiotics, diarrhea and vomiting, using too much laxatives, chronic kidney disease, and eating disorders.
What causes colds flu and AIDS?
Viruses.
What causes a fever with chills and consistent attempts to vomit and could it be the flu?
Could be gastric flu.
How hypokalemia related to cushing's syndrome?
Cushing's causes increased levels of cortisol. Cortisol, at high levels, acts like a mineralcorticoid (aldosterone), stimulating absorption of sodium and excretion of potassium at the collecting tubules. Hence, any disorder involving an excess of mineralcorticoids will cause hypokalemia.
Why is there hypokalemia?
Hypokalemia, which is low potassium levels in the blood, can occur due to various reasons. Some common causes include excessive vomiting or diarrhea leading to potassium loss, certain medications such as diuretics, kidney disorders impairing potassium reabsorption, and hormonal imbalances such as excess aldosterone secretion. Hypokalemia can result in muscle weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, and other symptoms.
