Loss of potassium, results in weakness, fatigue, constipation, muscle cramping is called which electrolyte imbalance?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hyponatremia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hypoglycemia

Answer: (C)

Potassium helps regulate electrical activity in nerves and muscles, including the heart and digestive tract. When potassium is lost and its level falls below normal, this is hypokalemia. With low potassium, muscle cells become less able to depolarize properly, leading to generalized weakness and fatigue. The reduced excitability also can cause muscle cramps. In the digestive system, low potassium slows smooth muscle contractions, which often results in constipation. This combination of weakness, fatigue, muscle cramping, and constipation is characteristic of hypokalemia.

Hyperkalemia (too much potassium) can cause weakness and heart rhythm issues but not typically constipation. Hyponatremia (low sodium) presents with confusion, dizziness, or seizures, not the described muscle/GI symptoms. Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar, producing shakiness, sweating, and confusion rather than an electrolyte imbalance.