Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis
Alternative names:
adynamia episodica hereditaria; periodic paralysis - hyperkalemic
Treatment:
The goals of treatment are relief of acute symptoms and prevention of further attacks.
Attacks are seldom severe enough to require emergency treatment. However, progressive weakness can occur with repeated attacks, so treatment should occur as soon as possible.
Glucose or other carbohydrates given during an attack may reduce the severity. Calcium may be given intravenously to stop acute attacks, or intravenous diuretics such as furosemide may stop them. Intravenous glucose and insulin causes potassium to move into the cell and may reduce weakness without a loss of total body potassium.
A high-carbohydrate diet may be recommended.
Acetazolamide, which prevents attacks of familial periodic paralysis, is also effective in preventing attacks of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis. Thiazide diuretics such as chlorothiazide are also effective and have fewer side effects than acetazolamide.
Expectations (prognosis):
Sometimes attacks resolve later in life on their own. However, chronic attacks generally result in progressive muscle weakness that is present even between attacks. Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis responds well to treatment. Treatment may prevent, and may even reverse, progressive muscle weakness.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if intermittent muscle weakness occurs, particularly if there is a family history of periodic paralysis.
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if fainting, difficulty breathing, difficulty speaking, or difficulty swallowing occur. These emergency symptoms are rare.
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