What EKG changes are associated with hypokalemia?

Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood, is often associated with specific changes in the electrocardiogram (EKG). The presence of a U wave and a flat T wave is characteristic of hypokalemia.

The U wave is a small wave that can appear after the T wave and may become more prominent when potassium levels are low. It reflects delayed repolarization of the Purkinje fibers and is more visible in conditions where there is a deficiency of potassium. A flat T wave indicates impaired repolarization of the ventricles, which is also observed in hypokalemic patients.

Together, these features serve as important indicators for clinicians when evaluating patients for electrolyte imbalances, particularly for conditions that could lead to potentially serious cardiac arrhythmias. Understanding these EKG changes helps in the timely diagnosis and management of hypokalemia, thus preventing complications associated with this electrolyte disturbance.