Which is worse hypokalemia or hyperkalemia?

As a medical professional with expertise in internal medicine, I can provide you with an informed perspective on the comparison between hypokalemia and hyperkalemia. Both hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) can be serious medical conditions, and which is "worse" depends on the context and severity of the situation. Here's a breakdown of the potential risks associated with each: Hypokalemia: - Can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and in severe cases, paralysis. - May cause digestive issues like constipation. - Can affect heart function, potentially leading to an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), which can be life-threatening if severe. Hyperkalemia: - Also affects muscle function, potentially leading to muscle weakness or paralysis. - A more immediate risk to the heart, where high potassium levels can cause severe arrhythmias, which can be fatal. - Can impair kidney function and lead to metabolic acidosis. In general, hyperkalemia is often considered more immediately dangerous due to the potential for severe cardiac complications, which can be rapid in onset and life-threatening. However, both conditions require prompt medical attention and should be managed according to the individual's specific health situation.

Although it is much less common than hypokalemia, hyperkalemia is much more dangerous, and when unrecognized or untreated it may result in cardiac arrest. ... Simply increasing the dietary intake of potassium rarely causes hyperkalemia, as it is rapidly excreted by the kidneys.