A patient complains of tingling and numbness in her hands an
A patient complains of tingling and numbness in her hands and feet, frequent muscle cramps in her calves, and light-headedness. Her blood pressure is remarkably low. Which of the following might you predict based on this patient\'s symptoms?
A patient complains of tingling and numbness in her hands and feet, frequent muscle cramps in her calves, and light-headedness. Her blood pressure is remarkably low. Which of the following might you predict based on this patient\'s symptoms?
| This patient has hyperkalemia. |
| This patient is hypercalcemic. |
| This patient has an overactive thyroid gland. |
| This patient has an overactive parathyroid gland. |
Solution
Answer:This patient has hyperkalemia.
Explanation:
If potassium levels are high enough to cause symptoms (hyperkalemia.), it causes:
1. fatigue or weakness.
2. a feeling of numbness or tingling.
3. nausea or vomiting.
4. problems breathing.
5. chest pain.
6. palpitations or skipped heartbeats.
