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Potassium is a chemical element; it has symbol K (from Neo-Latin kalium) and atomic number 19. It is a silvery white metal that is soft enough to easily cut with a knife. [9] Potassium metal reacts rapidly with atmospheric oxygen to form flaky white potassium peroxide in only seconds of exposure.
The sodium–potassium pump a critical enzyme for regulating sodium and potassium levels in cells. Potassium is the main intracellular ion for all types of cells, while having a major role in maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance. [1] [2] Potassium is necessary for the function of all living cells and is thus present in all plant and ...
In sweat glands potassium elimination is quite similar to the kidney; its excretion is also controlled by aldosterone. [medical citation needed] Regulation of serum potassium is a function of intake, appropriate distribution between intracellular and extracellular compartments, and effective bodily excretion.
potassium (from Latin kalium) KA: ketoacidosis: Kcal: kilocalorie; calorie: KCCT: kaolin cephalin clotting time (see Partial thromboplastin time) KELS: Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills kg: kilogram: KIV: keep in view KLS: kidney, liver, spleen K m: Michaelis constant: KOH: potassium hydroxide KS: Kaposi's sarcoma; Kartagener syndrome: KSHV
Normal potassium levels in humans are between 3.5 and 5.0 mmol/L (3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L) with levels below 3.5 mmol/L defined as hypokalemia. [1] [2] It is classified as severe when levels are less than 2.5 mmol/L. [1] Low levels may also be suspected based on an electrocardiogram (ECG). [1]
"Potassium is a mineral and an electrolyte that aids in muscle contraction and blood pressure regulation by counteracting the effects of sodium and fluid balance," Whitaker says. "It may prevent ...
Medications that are classified as potassium-sparing diuretics which block the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), such as amiloride and triamterene, are seldom prescribed as monotherapy. ENaC blocker medications need stronger public evidence for their blood pressure reducing effect.
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