3. Heart Palpitations: The Frightening Flutter of Your Heart
Heart palpitations, characterized by a sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeats, are another alarming symptom of hypokalemia. Potassium is crucial for maintaining a normal heart rhythm, and when its levels drop, it can result in palpitations or even dangerous arrhythmias.
Low potassium levels may cause abnormal electrical activity within the heart, leading to feelings of fluttering, skipped beats, or a racing heartbeat. (3) In severe cases, hypokalemia-induced arrhythmias can be life-threatening, increasing the risk of cardiac arrest or sudden death. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor and address any heart-related symptoms when dealing with hypokalemia.