Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a condition where a person has episodes of muscle weakness and sometimes severe paralysis.

The condition is congenital, which means it is present from birth. In most cases, passed down through families (inherited) as an autosomal dominant inheritance. This means that only one parent must pass on the gene associated with this condition on you that you may be affected.

Sometimes the condition may be the result of a genetic problem which is not hereditary.

Unlike other forms of periodic paralysis, persons with congenital hypokalemic periodic paralysis have normal thyroid function and potassium levels in the blood very low during episodes of weakness. This results in movement of potassium in the blood to abnormal muscle cells.

Risks include having other family members with periodic paralysis. The risk is slightly higher among Asian men who also have thyroid disorders.

Disorders that cause periodic episodes of paralysis as their primary effect is rare. hypokalemic periodic paralysis occurs in about 1 in 100,000 people.