|
Muscle weakness that involves the breathing or swallowing muscles is an emergency situation. Dangerous heart arrhythmias may also occur during attacks.
Text Continues Below
The goals of treatment are relief of acute symptoms and prevention of further attacks.
Potassium that is given during an attack may stop the attack. It is preferred that potassium be given by mouth, but if weakness is severe, intravenous potassium may be necessary. (Note: intravenous potassium should be given with caution, especially in individuals with kidney disease.) Taking potassium will not prevent attacks.
A low-carbohydrate diet and avoidance of alcohol may be recommended.
Acetazolamide prevents attacks in many cases, possibly by reducing the flow of potassium from the bloodstream into the cells of the body. Potassium supplements may be necessary because acetazolamide may cause the body to lose potassium.
Triamterene or spironolactone may help to prevent attacks in people who do not respond to acetazolamide.
|
.gif)
