Attacks may be prevented with frequent small meals high in carbohydrates, and the avoidance of foods high in potassium such as Orange Juice or bananas. Acetazolamide or thiazide (a diuretic) may be prescribed.
Hyperkalemic PP is also called potassium-sensitive PP.
The level of potassium in the blood rises slightly or is normal.
The gene for hyperkalemic PP affects virtually all who inherit it, with no difference in male-vs.-female expression.
The gene for hyperkalemic PP affects virtually all who inherit it, with no difference in male-vs.-female expression.
Periodic paralysis disorders are genetic disorders that affect muscle strength. There are two major forms, hypokalemic and hyperkalemic, each caused by defects in different genes.
An attack of hyperkalemic PP can be induced with administration of potassium after exercise during fasting. These tests are potentially hazardous and require careful monitoring.
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood during attacks, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis. In contrast, hyperkalemic periodic paralysis is characterized by high levels of potassium during episodes, resulting in muscle stiffness or weakness. Both conditions are genetic and involve dysfunction in ion channels that regulate potassium levels in muscle cells.
There are two major forms, hypokalemic and hyperkalemic, each caused by defects in different genes.
Attacks requiring treatment are much less common in hyperkalemic PP. Glucose and insulin may be prescribed. Eating carbohydrates may also relieve attacks.
Weakness usually progresses from the lower limbs to the upper, and may involve the facial muscles as well.
The normal gene is responsible for a muscle protein controlling the flow of sodium during muscle contraction.
Missing a meal, with high potassium intake, or use of glucocorticoid drugs such as prednisone. (Glucocorticoids are a group of steroids that regulate metabolism and affect muscle tone.)