10 Hypokalemia Symptoms
Symptom #9: Respiratory Depression
Respiratory depression or hypoventilation occurs when there is inadequate ventilation required for gas exchange. It results in the increased concentration of carbon dioxide throughout the body. This is known as hypercapnia and results in respiratory acidosis.
It can be seen in conditions such as a stroke affecting the brainstem, use of medications or drugs, voluntary breath holding, chronic mountain sickness, hypokalemia, etcetera. It should be considered a medical emergency and patients should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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