The symptoms of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis, although lasting for a specific phase or period of time, are as distressing as any other type of Paralysis. The disorder has genetic bases but it is associated with a few triggering factors which are avoidable.
Moreover, a few safe yet effective treatment options are available for managing the symptoms and treating the underlying causes. So let’s delve into this useful information to learn how we can easily and effectively overcome HypoPP.
What is Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis (HypoPP)?
Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis (HypoPP or HPP) is a rare genetic disorder, occurring in episodes. Each episode can be a few hours to a few days long and the patient experiences severe symptoms of muscle weakness or paralysis in the muscles of the arms, legs, and trunk during these episodes.
HyoPp has genetic bases and is triggered by a low level of potassium level in the blood, the condition also known as “Hypokalemia”. The disorder is therefore known as Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis.
Causes of HypoPP
Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis is basically caused by certain mutations in the genes that control the movement of potassium in and out of the muscle cells. Due to this mutation, the potassium level in the muscles gets affected and it makes the muscles weak or paralyzed temporarily.
HypoPP is diagnosed when the laboratory tests confirm Hypokalemia (low level of potassium in the blood) during an episode of paralysis attack.
Symptoms of HypoPP
The symptoms of HypoPP vary from patient to patient. Each individual can have slightly different symptoms based on his/her health conditions. The symptoms might also vary in terms of severity and the episodes might have a different duration or frequency.
These are some common Hypokalemic periodic paralysis symptoms:
- Muscle weakness in different limbs, e.g. the arms, legs, and trunk.
- Any of the limbs might become paralyzed, making it impossible to move the muscles of that particular part of the body voluntarily.
- Severe fatigue and exhaustion due to constant muscle weakness.
- Numbness or a tingling sensation in the affected muscles.
- Feeling of tightness in muscles, muscle cramps, or spasms at the end of a paralysis attack episode.
- Some respiratory or breathing difficulty symptoms might also be associated with HypoPP. And in severe cases the respiratory muscles can also get affected.
- In some severe cases the heart muscles can also get affected leading to cardiac symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Which Factors Can Trigger HypoPP?
Despite having genetic bases, several factors can trigger the HypoPP attacks, such as:
- High-intensity exercise or a tiring physical activity.
- Mental or psychological stress.
- Sudden temperature changes.
- Alcohol consumption.
- Overeating or not eating for too long
- Taking certain foods or foods with a high level of carbohydrates or sodium like sugary or starchy foods, salty foods can also trigger the symptoms of HypoPP attacks.
How to Prevent HypoPP?
To prevent Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis (HypoPP), manage the factors that trigger the symptoms. You can do so by adapting these few simple strategies:
Take potassium-rich food
Try to maintain the required levels of Potassium in the blood, by taking Potassium-rich foods. Include foods rich in Potassium such as bananas, beans, potatoes, yogurt, spinach, etc. in your daily diet to fulfill your body’s Potassium requirements.
Take potassium supplements
Taking potassium supplements can also help in maintaining the daily required level of potassium. Although it’s always better to go for the natural diet to achieve this goal, you can still take these supplements if your doctor suggests so. You must carefully follow the prescribed dose of the supplements to avoid any further complications.
Stay well hydrated and maintain electrolytes
It’s vital to stay well hydrated and maintain the balance of electrolytes in your body to keep yourself safe from the HypoPP attacks. Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis symptoms get worse if the patient is suffering from dehydration or low levels of electrolytes.
Stay away from the attack triggers
Avoid triggers like fasting, high-carb meals, and stress. Engage in regular exercise but avoid overexertion and follow a regular sleep schedule. It is better to avoid the factors that trigger HypoPP to prevent paralysis attacks.
Treatment Options for Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis
Along with maintaining your body’s potassium levels with diet and supplements, also consider a treatment option for managing your HypoPP. These are some common treatment options for managing Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis:
Medications
Your physician would prescribe you some medicines to prevent HypoPP attacks or to manage the related symptoms. These medicines mostly include the ones used to regulate the level of potassium and carbohydrates in the body
Genetic Counseling
Once during the hypokalemic periodic paralysis diagnosis, the genetic testing confirms a family history of HypoPP, it’s recommended to seek genetic counseling. In this way, the pattern of genetic mutation and inheritance can be analyzed to prevent the next generation from this disorder. It’s especially helpful for those planning to have children.
Homeopathic Treatment
As the hypokalemic periodic paralysis causes are mostly related to the imbalance of potassium and carbohydrate levels in the body, homoeopathic medicine can be a good option for regulating these. Homeopathic medicine is prescribed according to the particular symptoms an individual is experiencing so it can help a lot in managing your HypoPP symptoms and reducing their severity.
For tailored treatment specifically for Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis (HypoPP), we recommend seeking a personalized homeopathic treatment plan. Connect with our team of experienced homeopathic experts at PMRI Homeo for an online consultation at your convenience.
Real-Life Success Story
Take a look at the incredible transformation of one of our patients under the expert care of Dr. Entekhab Alam. With dedicated homoeopathic treatment, they achieved 100% recovery from HypoPP, drastically improving their quality of life.
Conclusion
While HypoPP can be challenging to live with, you can lead a fulfilling life by preventing attacks and managing your symptoms properly. Also, educate your family and friends about your conditions for support during episodes. Remember, managing the level of potassium with your diet and avoiding the paralysis attack triggers is the key to dealing with your HypoPP and living a gratifying life.