Question of the day: Electrolyte abnormality

Hypokalemia can disrupt the delicate balance of cardiac electrical activity, potentially leading to the development of atrial fibrillation.

This electrolyte abnormality affects the function of potassium channels in the heart, altering the myocardial cell membrane potential and promoting arrhythmias. In atrial fibrillation, the atria quiver rather than contract effectively, causing irregular heartbeats and increasing the risk of complications like stroke and heart failure. Therefore, maintaining normal potassium levels through a balanced diet and appropriate medical management is crucial for cardiovascular health.