Which symptom is NOT typically associated with hyperkalemia?

Prepare for the EDAPT Homeostasis and Elimination Test. Use interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Boost your understanding and get exam-ready now!

Hyperkalemia, which refers to elevated potassium levels in the blood, can lead to a range of symptoms due to its effects on muscles and heart function. Muscle weakness is a common symptom because high potassium impacts neuromuscular transmission. It can also cause cardiac arrest as it disrupts the normal electrical activity of the heart, potentially leading to serious heart rhythm abnormalities. Palpitations can occur because hyperkalemia may cause irregular heartbeats.

On the other hand, constipation is generally associated with low potassium levels (hypokalemia) rather than high levels. Elevated potassium can indeed affect gut motility, but it is not typically linked to constipation as a direct symptom. In cases of hyperkalemia, bowel function may be more likely to increase, leading to diarrhea rather than constipation. Therefore, among the symptoms listed, constipation is not typically associated with hyperkalemia, making it the correct answer.

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