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How does hypokalemia cause arrhythmia?

In: Conditions and Diseases, Cardiovascular Health, Human Physiology [Edit categories]

Answer:

Hypokalemia is proarrhythmic because it decreases K+ conductance through voltage-gated channels, decreasing the hyperpolarization effect of the ion during the repolarization phase in cardiac tissue. As the membrane potential remains "partly depolarized" it promotes automaticity. Hypokalemia, which may be caused by chronic use of thiazide-diuretics, produce a characteristic U wave in the ECG.

Conversely, hyperkalemia may also cause arrhythmias, in this case it would be due to increased conductance through voltage-gated K+ channels, thus decreasing the action potential duration/effective refractory period, thereby allowing reception for a action potential. Hyperkalemia also decreases outflow of K+ ion through ungated-channels, thus again keeping the tissue at more depolarized stage and promoting automaticity.

First answer by Jsubrady. Last edit by Medicacentum. Contributor trust: 5 [recommend contributor ]. Question popularity: 2 [recommend question].

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Relevant answers:

What causes arrhythmia?
imbalance in your blood - coronary artery disease - injury from heart attack
What causes Hypokalemia?
Hypokalemia is a condition occurring when the potassium level in the blood are abnormally low. It can result in muscle weakness, heart irregularities, disorientation, and sometimes cardiac arrest.
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