Hypokalemic periodic paralysis: Difference between revisions

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a condition that causes episodes of extreme muscle weakness typically beginning in childhood or adolescence. Most often, these episodes involve a temporary inability to move muscles in the arms and legs. Attacks cause severe weakness or paralysis that usually lasts from hours to days. Some people may have episodes almost every day, while others experience them weekly, monthly, or only rarely. Attacks can occur without warning or can be triggered by factors such as rest after exercise, a viral illness, or certain medications. Often, a large, carbohydrate-rich meal or vigorous exercise in the evening can trigger an attack upon waking the following morning. Although affected individuals usually regain their muscle strength between attacks, some develop persistent muscle weakness later in life. <ref>{{Citationcite web needed|datetitle=Hypokalemic periodic paralysis: MedlinePlus Genetics |url=https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/hypokalemic-periodic-paralysis/ |website=medlineplus.gov |publisher=U.S. National Library of Medicine |accessdate=26 October 2020 |language=en}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>