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Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis - Prevention

Alternative Names

Periodic paralysis - hyperkalemic

Prevention:

A medicine called acetazolamide prevents attacks in many cases. Thiazide diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide are also effective and have fewer side effects than acetazolamide. A low potassium, high carbohydrate diet may also help prevent attacks, as may avoiding fasting, strenuous activity, or cold temperatures.

  • Reviewed last on: 11/30/2009
  • David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Herbert Y. Lin, MD, PHD, Nephrologist, Massachusetts General Hospital; Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Barohn RJ. Muscle diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 447.

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