What can be a serious consequence of hypokalemia?

Hypokalemia, which refers to a lower than normal level of potassium in the bloodstream, can lead to several serious complications, with cardiac arrest being one of the most severe. Potassium is essential for proper muscle function, including the muscles of the heart. When potassium levels drop too low, it can disrupt the electrical signals that regulate heartbeats, potentially resulting in arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and, in critical cases, cardiac arrest. This makes monitoring potassium levels vital, especially in patients undergoing hemodialysis, as they are particularly at risk for electrolyte imbalances.

While headaches, nausea, and weight gain can be associated with various health conditions, they do not pose the same immediate threat to life as cardiac arrest resulting from severe hypokalemia. Therefore, the focus on cardiac arrest highlights the critical nature of potassium's role in maintaining cardiovascular stability.