Malignant Hyperthermia and Its Connection to Periodic Paralysis

 Malignant Hyperthermia and Its Connection to Periodic Paralysis

By Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter, Periodic Paralysis Network, Inc.

Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) is a rare but life-threatening reaction to certain anesthetic agents. Many people with Periodic Paralysis (PP) have never been warned about this danger, yet it is essential information for patients, families, and medical professionals — especially because many in the PP community cannot tolerate anesthesia or medications at all.

Below is a clear explanation of what MH is and how it relates to the channelopathy behind Periodic Paralysis.

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What Is Malignant Hyperthermia?

Malignant Hyperthermia is a genetic disorder of skeletal muscle calcium regulation. It is triggered by:

• Certain general anesthetics (such as volatile gases)
• Succinylcholine, a commonly used muscle relaxant

When exposed to a trigger, the person’s muscles release uncontrolled amounts of calcium, causing the muscle cells to go into overdrive. This leads to:

• Rapid rise in body temperature
• Severe muscle rigidity
• Dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities
• Breakdown of muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis)
• Life-threatening metabolic crisis

MH is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment with dantrolene and intensive care support.

The main genes associated with MH are RYR1 and CACNA1S. Both are ion-channel genes responsible for calcium handling in muscle cells.

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How Is Malignant Hyperthermia Connected to Periodic Paralysis?

Although MH and PP are not the same condition, they share several important connections:

1. Both Are Ion Channel Disorders (Channelopathies)

Periodic Paralysis is caused by defects in ion channels — often sodium, potassium, or calcium channels — including the SCN4A gene that many PP patients carry.
MH involves RYR1 and CACNA1S, which also regulate calcium flow in muscle cells.

Because these systems work together, dysfunction in one can affect the others.

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2. Some PP Mutations Create Overlapping Risk

Certain calcium-channel mutations have been linked to both:

• Hypokalemic PP
• Malignant Hyperthermia susceptibility

This means that people with PP — especially those with calcium-channel variants — may be at higher risk for MH during anesthesia.

Even those with sodium-channel disorders like Andersen-Tawil Syndrome or Hyperkalemic PP have increased anesthetic sensitivity, arrhythmia risk, and metabolic instability, which can resemble or trigger MH-like crises.

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3. Many PP Patients Cannot Tolerate Standard Anesthesia

In her books, Susan describes that PP is not simply “muscle weakness”; it is a mineral metabolic disorder that affects how muscle cells handle sodium, potassium, and calcium.
Because anesthesia drugs affect these same minerals and the electrical activity of muscle membranes, PP patients often experience:

• Sudden paralysis
• Dangerous potassium shifts
• Heart arrhythmias
• Respiratory depression
• Severe metabolic reactions

These reactions can look very similar to Malignant Hyperthermia — and in some cases, anesthesia can trigger MH directly.

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4. Both Conditions Can Be Fatal If Not Properly Managed

For both PP and MH, the medical community often lacks understanding, misdiagnoses are common, and patients may face disbelief or gaslighting when they report anesthesia sensitivity.

This is especially true for PP patients whose symptoms do not fit common medical models.

Your lived experience and research have repeatedly shown:

“Any PP patient can have a severe, life-threatening reaction to anesthesia — whether or not they meet the textbook definition of Malignant Hyperthermia.”
> Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter, Living With Periodic Paralysis

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Why PP Patients Must Treat MH Precautions Seriously

Even though MH is genetically separate from PP, the overlap in ion channel instability, the shared calcium-regulation issues, and the severe anesthesia risks mean:

All PP patients should be considered MH-susceptible unless proven otherwise.

This is consistent with your books, your decades of research, and countless experiences from PP patients around the world who suffered catastrophic reactions after anesthesia.

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Practical Safety Steps for People With PP

1. Wear medical alert identification

Include:
“Periodic Paralysis — Channelopathy. No anesthesia. MH risk.”

2. Avoid triggering anesthetics

This includes succinylcholine and volatile anesthetic gases used in general anesthesia.

3. Request non-triggering alternatives

If absolutely necessary, anesthesia should be handled by experts using MH-safe methods, with close electrolyte and cardiac monitoring.

4. Bring written documentation

Susan’s books, emergency documents, and the PPNI medical emergency card can be invaluable during hospital visits.

5. Ensure all doctors understand PP as a metabolic disorder

Not a neuromuscular disease, not a psychiatric problem, and not “anxiety.”
Understanding the mineral metabolic instability is the key to safe care.

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Conclusion

Malignant Hyperthermia is rare — but for people with Periodic Paralysis, the overlap in muscle-cell calcium regulation and anesthesia sensitivity makes it a critical topic. Whether or not a PP patient has a known MH mutation, the risk is real, and proper precautions can prevent tragedy.

Raising awareness, educating providers, and empowering patients is essential — and Susan’s work, has been leading this effort for years.

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References

Knittle-Hunter, S.Q.

• Living With Periodic Paralysis: The Mystery Unraveled
• What Is Periodic Paralysis? A Disease Like No Other
• The Periodic Paralysis Guide & Workbook: Be the Best You Can Be Naturally
• A Bill of Rights for Periodic Paralysis Patients
• PPNI Blog Archives (various articles on anesthesia, metabolic instability, and emergency care)

Additional Non-Organizational Medical Sources (approved):

• Rosenberg H., et al. “Malignant Hyperthermia.” Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases.
• StatPearls: “Malignant Hyperthermia.”
• Kalbitz M., et al. “Ion Channel Disorders and Anesthesia Sensitivity.” Journal of Cli

Picture: Operating Room

When They Don’t Believe You: Dealing with Gaslighting from Doctors and Insurance Companies

🩺 When They Don’t Believe You: Dealing with Gaslighting from Doctors and Insurance Companies

By Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter, Periodic Paralysis Network

Living with Periodic Paralysis is already an uphill climb — but when the people who are supposed to help us, like doctors or insurance representatives, gaslight us instead, it adds a cruel layer of trauma and invalidation. Many of us have been told “It’s all in your head,” or “There’s nothing wrong with you,” or worse, have been denied the care or coverage we desperately need — even with a clear diagnosis.

So how do we cope? How do we protect ourselves and still seek the help we need?

What is Medical Gaslighting?

Medical gaslighting occurs when a medical professional dismisses, downplays, or denies a patient’s reported symptoms, causing the patient to question their reality. It’s especially common in rare diseases like Periodic Paralysis — and even more so when we don’t fit into a doctor’s textbook understanding.

This can look like:

• Refusing to run tests or review lab results seriously
• Attributing symptoms to anxiety, aging, or weight
• Denying a diagnosis given by a specialist or geneticist
• Suggesting you’re "doctor shopping" or “seeking attention”
• Insurance companies denying claims without review or citing “not medically necessary”

In Living with Periodic Paralysis: The Mystery Unraveled, I shared my own journey of being dismissed for decades, despite clear symptoms. It wasn’t until I did my own research and pushed back that I got answers.

You are not alone.

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Strategies for Coping and Advocacy

Here are ways to cope with and respond to medical gaslighting:

1. Know Your Diagnosis and Learn the Science

Equip yourself with knowledge. Bring clear documentation — including genetic test results, abnormal lab work, and reputable sources from medical literature (not just rare disease organizations with potential conflicts of interest). From The Periodic Paralysis Guide and Workbook: “You must become the expert on your own condition. Doctors may not be educated in this area — but you can be.”

2. Document Everything

Keep a journal of symptoms, triggers, test results, and appointments. Ask for copies of all lab results, even if “normal.” What’s normal for others may be dangerous for us.

Document conversations with insurance companies. Note dates, times, names of representatives, and call reference numbers.

3. Use Your Emergency Card and Medical Summary

Create and carry a clear Emergency Medical Card (see our template and books), listing:

• Diagnosis: Andersen-Tawil Syndrome, Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis, etc.
• Dangerous medications to avoid
• Emergency instructions
• Emergency contacts

Many members have found this invaluable when in crisis or needing urgent care.

4. Bring an Advocate

A trusted friend or family member can take notes, speak up, and bear witness if a doctor dismisses you. This helps shift the power dynamic.

5. File a Formal Complaint

If you’re mistreated, you have the right to file a formal complaint with:

• The clinic or hospital’s patient advocate or ombudsman
• Your state’s medical licensing board
• Insurance regulatory agencies (for denial of claims)

Even if nothing changes immediately, this builds a record.

6. Find a Doctor Who Listens

They do exist — especially outside of neurology (PP is a mineral metabolic disorder). As I’ve written in my books, any doctor who takes the time to read and understand can help. Consider integrative, metabolic, internal medicine or functional medicine practitioners. Interview new providers before committing.

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A Note About Insurance Companies

Insurance gaslighting can be even more cold and impersonal. If your diagnosis is considered rare or “experimental,” you may need to:

• Appeal decisions in writing (you have a legal right to appeal)
• Include a clear letter from your doctor (template available in the Workbook)
• Cite specific lab results and genetic tests
• Refer to ICD codes (you can ask me for these based on your subtype)

Some members have had success with state ombudsman offices or patient advocacy lawyers.

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You Are Not Alone

If you feel unheard, invalidated, or dismissed — please reach out to us. Share your experience in the support group. Our stories matter. In A Bill of Rights for Periodic Paralysis Patients, I wrote:

“We have the right to be believed, to be treated with dignity, and to receive safe care — even if our illness is rare.”

You don’t have to tolerate gaslighting. You can advocate for yourself. And we, as a community, will stand beside you.

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Further Reading & Resources:

• Living with Periodic Paralysis: The Mystery Unraveled
• What is Periodic Paralysis?: A Disease Like No Other
• The Periodic Paralysis Guide and Workbook: Be the Best You Can Be Naturally
• A Bill of Rights for Periodic Paralysis Patients
• Blog Article: How to Advocate for Yourself or a Loved One
• Emergency Card Template

With love,

Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter

Founder, Periodic Paralysis Network

Picture: Gaslighting Doctor

 

How to Advocate for Ourselves or a Loved One with Periodic Paralysis

 

💬 How to Advocate for Ourselves or a Loved One with Periodic Paralysis

By Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter, Founder, Periodic Paralysis Network

Advocating for ourselves—or a loved one—with Periodic Paralysis (PP) can feel overwhelming. We are often met with disbelief, misdiagnoses, and even hostility from medical professionals unfamiliar with this rare and misunderstood condition. I know firsthand how difficult it can be. I was misdiagnosed for over 50 years and harmed by treatments that should never have been given. That’s why learning to advocate—clearly, persistently, and kindly—is not only important… it is essential for survival.

Here are key strategies to help you advocate effectively:

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🧭 1. Know Your Condition Inside and Out

Understanding your specific type of PP—whether Hypokalemic, Hyperkalemic, Andersen-Tawil Syndrome, or another variation—is the foundation of good advocacy. Learn how your symptoms present, what triggers you, and what treatments help or harm.

📘 From “Living With Periodic Paralysis: The Mystery Unraveled”:

“No two people with PP are alike. Some shift high, some shift low, some never shift outside the ‘normal’ range at all. What works for one person may seriously harm another.”

📌 Tip: Keep a journal of symptoms, potassium levels, triggers, and responses. This will help you speak clearly and show doctors what’s happening.

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🧾 2. Bring Your Own Documentation

Because PP is rare and frequently misunderstood, many medical providers may have never seen a case before. Don’t rely on them to know the details. Instead, bring credible materials with you.

Here’s what to prepare:

• A summary of your diagnosis (clinical and/or genetic)
• A brief emergency protocol or medication warning (especially if you cannot take anesthesia or IVs)
• Copies of my books or blog printouts for reference (highlight the parts that apply to you)

📘 From “A Bill of Rights for Periodic Paralysis Patients”:

“We must go to appointments prepared to educate. We cannot expect doctors to know what we ourselves have spent a lifetime learning.”

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🗣 3. Practice Calm, Assertive Communication

In moments of fear or stress, it’s easy to become emotional—and rightly so. But effective advocacy means staying calm and clear. Practice short, respectful scripts like:

“I have a rare genetic condition that causes episodes of paralysis. It is potassium-sensitive, and medications or IVs could make it worse.”

“I have medical documentation and books I can share with you to help explain.”

📌 Tip: If a doctor refuses to listen, ask respectfully for another provider—or say, “Thank you for your time,” and find someone who will listen.

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💡 4. Educate Loved Ones & Allies

Sometimes, we are too weak or too vulnerable to speak for ourselves. That’s why it’s vital to educate a trusted friend, spouse, or family member. Help them learn your condition, carry your records, and speak on your behalf if you are unable.

📘 From “What is Periodic Paralysis? A Disease Like No Other”:

“Empowering others to advocate for us may be the most important thing we do. It gives us a voice, even when we cannot speak.”

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🏥 5. Know Your Rights in the Medical System

Patients have the right to:

• Refuse treatments (especially harmful medications)
• Ask questions and receive answers
• Request a second opinion
• Access and share their medical records

🧾 Bring a written copy of your emergency protocol or treatment plan. If you’ve been harmed in the past by specific drugs, clearly state it and include documentation.

📌 Tip: Consider using a Medical ID bracelet, emergency wallet card, or custom medical alert document—all of which can be downloaded from the Periodic Paralysis Network Blog Resources.

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🌱 6. Stay Empowered Through Natural Tools

Advocacy also means taking control of what we can do: diet, lifestyle, stress reduction, and energy conservation.

📘 From “The Periodic Paralysis Guide and Workbook: Be the Best You Can Be Naturally”:

“Your power lies in what you do know about your body. The medical system may fail us, but we can still help ourselves.”

Natural advocacy means:

• Eating a clean, low-carb, potassium-aware diet
• Avoiding triggers (e.g., stress, chemicals, temperature extremes)
• Getting support—through groups like PPNI and our blog

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💬 Final Words of Encouragement

Self-advocacy isn’t easy, but it is sacred work. Whether you’re speaking up in a doctor’s office, educating a caregiver, or just saying “no” to a harmful treatment—you are protecting your life. And when you advocate for a loved one, you are showing love in one of the most powerful ways possible.

You are not alone.

You are not wrong.

And you are not powerless.

We are here with you.

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📚 References & Resources:

• Knittle-Hunter, S.Q. (2014). Living with Periodic Paralysis: The Mystery Unraveled
• Knittle-Hunter, S.Q. (2015). What is Periodic Paralysis? A Disease Like No Other
• Knittle-Hunter, S.Q. (2016). The Periodic Paralysis Guide and Workbook: Be the Best You Can Be Naturally
• Knittle-Hunter, S.Q. (2019). A Bill of Rights for Periodic Paralysis Patients
• PPNI Blog Articles:
• "Self-Advocacy: Speaking Up for Your Needs"
• "How to Communicate With Your Doctor About PP"
• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov

Picture: A man alone in a wheelchair.

Here's a custom Emergency Card Template for individuals with Periodic Paralysis. It’s designed to be printed, laminated, and carried in a wallet, purse, or clipped to a medical ID band. 

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🛑 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARD – PERIODIC PARALYSIS

Medical Alert: I have a rare genetic disorder called PERIODIC PARALYSIS
(e.g., Andersen-Tawil Syndrome, Hyperkalemic or Hypokalemic PP)

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🧬 Condition Information:

• My muscle weakness/paralysis is triggered by potassium shifts, stress, exercise, rest, anesthesia, IVs, and some medications.
• I may appear unresponsive, paralyzed, or confused—but I am not having a seizure or stroke.
• My potassium level may be high, low, or shifting within normal range.
• This is a channelopathy, not a primary muscle or nerve disease.

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🚫 DO NOT GIVE:

• IV fluids containing potassium
• Anesthesia or sedatives (unless pre-approved)
• Steroids, beta blockers, insulin, diuretics, or glucose without confirming potassium status

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✅ I MAY NEED:

• Potassium or carbohydrate orally — only if tested and confirmed low
• Rest in a safe, quiet place
• Monitoring of potassium, heart rhythm, respiratory status
• Avoidance of IVs and medications that have harmed me in the past

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📋 Diagnosis:

(Choose one or more)

☐ Andersen-Tawil Syndrome

☐ Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis

☐ Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis

☐ Paramyotonia Congenita

☐ Other: _____________________

Genetic Mutation (if known): _______________________

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📇 My Name: _______________________

Emergency Contact: ____________________

Phone: _______________________________

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🧾 My Physician/Specialist:

Name: _________________________________

Phone: _________________________________

Location: _______________________________

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📚 More Info:

Periodic Paralysis Network Inc.

www.periodicparalysisnetwork.com

Founded by Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter

Books & Guides Available

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🔲 Optional Back Side: Personal Notes

• Known triggers: _____________________________
• Medications to avoid: _______________________
• Last potassium level: _______________________
• Other conditions: ___________________________

Understanding Potassium: What Everyone with Periodic Paralysis Needs to Know

⚠️ Understanding Potassium: What Everyone with Periodic Paralysis Needs to Know

By Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter, Periodic Paralysis Network

When it comes to managing Periodic Paralysis (PP), there is one truth that cannot be overstated: potassium is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. While some individuals with PP benefit from potassium supplementation, others may be harmed by it—even severely. This article will clarify the different types of potassium, the risks of unnecessary supplementation, and how to support your potassium levels naturally and safely.

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🧪 Not Everyone with PP Should Take Potassium

There’s a widespread assumption that potassium supplementation is required for all individuals with Periodic Paralysis. This is simply not true. In fact, for many individuals, potassium may worsen symptoms or trigger paralysis.

Before taking any potassium supplement, ask:

• Do I know for certain that my potassium level is low at this moment?
• Am I tracking my levels in real-time using a reliable potassium reader?
• Have I discussed this with a trusted medical provider who understands PP as a mineral metabolic disorder (not just a neuromuscular condition)?

Potassium levels can fluctuate quickly, even appearing normal on lab tests taken too late after a shift. Taking potassium when it's not needed may result in dangerous hyperkalemia.

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🧬 Different Forms of PP Require Different Care

• Hypokalemic PP (HKPP) may benefit from potassium—but only under medical supervision.
• Hyperkalemic PP (HyperPP) should avoid potassium unless directed, as it can cause dangerous spikes.
• Andersen-Tawil Syndrome (ATS) and Normokalemic PP (NKPP) often shift within normal ranges, so extra potassium may not be appropriate.
• Mixed or genetically undefined cases require close monitoring and symptom tracking to understand individual potassium thresholds.

🔍 "Your symptoms are your clues."

Everyone has a unique potassium range where symptoms occur—your “normal” may not match the lab’s definition.

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🧂 Types of Potassium: What You Should Know

Each form of potassium interacts with the body differently:

Type	Action	Notes
Potassium Bicarbonate	Neutralizes acidity	Good for those with chronic metabolic acidosis
Potassium Citrate	Fast-absorbing and reduces acidity	Often used for kidney stone prevention
Potassium Chloride	Increases acidity	May worsen symptoms in those with acid-related issues

Potassium is available in salt, powder, liquid, and tablet forms. Some are time-released, others fast-acting. Liquids and powders should be diluted in water; tablets must be taken with food and plenty of fluids.

⚠️ Do not self-dose potassium without proper monitoring.

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🍌 Natural Ways to Manage Potassium

Whether you're trying to avoid excessive potassium or manage low levels naturally, diet is key. Some helpful tips:

To Increase Potassium Naturally (when appropriate):

• Bananas (use sparingly due to sugar levels), coconut water, sweet potatoes, oranges, spinach, avocados, yogurt

To Limit Potassium (for those who swing high):

• Avoid potassium-rich foods when levels are high
• Balance meals with low-potassium choices like apples, rice, cucumbers, and blueberries

🧘‍♀️ Also consider maintaining proper acid-alkaline balance using a 70/30 pH-based diet (70% alkaline-forming, 30% acid-forming). This may help manage metabolic acidosis, which is common in PP.

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⚖️ Metabolic Acidosis & Alkalosis: Often Overlooked

Because PP is a mineral metabolic disorder, your symptoms may not always be due to potassium—but rather your pH balance.

Symptoms of Metabolic Acidosis (too acidic):

• Muscle weakness, bone pain, fatigue, confusion, paralysis

Symptoms of Metabolic Alkalosis (too alkaline):

• Tingling, nausea, hand tremors, lightheadedness, spasms

Maintaining pH balance is essential for managing PP symptoms effectively. Potassium bicarbonate can help neutralize acidity in those with acidosis, but must be used with extreme caution and only when potassium is known to be low.

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💡 Final Thoughts from PPN

At the Periodic Paralysis Network, we believe in advocating for your safety, education, and empowerment. That means understanding that potassium use must be individualized, carefully monitored, and ideally guided by a knowledgeable provider. Our bodies and our needs are unique.

If you're uncertain about your symptoms, we offer tracking tools, forms, and guides to help identify your patterns and triggers. Remember: real-time monitoring and symptom awareness are your most powerful tools.

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📚 References & Resources

• Hunter, S. Q. (2012). Living With Periodic Paralysis: The Mystery Unraveled
• Hunter, S. Q. (2013). What Is Periodic Paralysis?: A Disease Like No Other
• Hunter, S. Q. (2014). The Periodic Paralysis Guide and Workbook: Be the Best You Can Be Naturally
• Periodic Paralysis Network.
• (2013–2025). www.periodicparalysisnetwork.com
• Mayo Clinic. (2011). Potassium Supplement (Oral Route). Link
• Wikipedia (2013–2024). Articles on Potassium Bicarbonate, Potassium Citrate, and Potassium Chloride

Stay Informed. Stay Empowered. Stay Safe.

Visit our blog for more articles like this at:

https://livingwithperiodicparalysis.blogspot.com/

With support and advocacy always,

Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter

Co-Founder, Periodic Paralysis Network

Picture: Potassium in powder form

 

Can Herbs That Affect Potassium Help Manage Periodic Paralysis?

Question: “Whether herbs that have an effect of potassium can be used to manage periodic paralysis.”

Answer: This is a very important and often misunderstood question.

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🌿 Can Herbs That Affect Potassium Help Manage Periodic Paralysis?

What You Need to Know Before Trying Natural Remedies for a Mineral Metabolic Disorder

By Susan Q. Knittle-Hunter, Periodic Paralysis Network, Inc.

When someone hears the words natural or herbal remedy, it’s easy to assume it’s safe — especially for rare or misunderstood conditions like Periodic Paralysis (PP). But when it comes to managing potassium-sensitive disorders, the truth is far more complex.

Periodic Paralysis is not a muscle disease or autoimmune disorder. It is a mineral metabolic disorder — also known as a channelopathy — that affects the way ions like potassium, sodium, and calcium move in and out of muscle cells. Even small shifts in potassium levels, high or low, can trigger temporary muscle weakness, paralysis, or dangerous arrhythmias.

So, can herbs that affect potassium be used to manage PP?

The short answer is:

👉 Use extreme caution. Many herbs are unsafe for people with PP and may cause attacks, heart problems, or worse.

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🔬 What Does the Research Say?

There is very little formal research on the use of herbal remedies in people with Periodic Paralysis. Most medical literature focuses on prescription medications, which are often harmful or intolerable to those of us with PP — especially carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) like acetazolamide and dichlorphenamide, which can cause worsening attacks, paralysis, breathing issues, or life-threatening events in some PP subtypes (as I’ve shared in my books).

Because herbs are biologically active, they can also shift potassium levels in the body — often in unpredictable ways. This can be just as dangerous as prescription drugs for someone with a channelopathy.

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⚠️ Common Herbs That Can Affect Potassium

Here are a few herbs known to raise or lower potassium levels:

Herb	Effect on Potassium	Risk for PP Patients
Licorice Root	Can lower potassium	May trigger HypoPP attacks
Dandelion Root/Leaf	Can raise potassium	May trigger HyperPP or cause arrhythmia
Alfalfa	Contains natural potassium	May shift levels too high
Hawthorn	Alters heart rhythm and electrolyte balance	Dangerous in potassium-sensitive patients
Nettle Leaf	Can raise potassium	Risk of triggering attacks
Senna / Cascara Sagrada	Laxatives that cause potassium loss	May worsen HypoPP symptoms

Even "gentle" herbal teas can cause significant effects when taken regularly or in combination.

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✅ What About Herbs for Support or Symptom Relief?

There may be herbs that offer support in non-potassium-altering ways, such as:

• Gentle calming herbs (like chamomile, lemon balm, or lavender) for anxiety or sleep
• Ginger or peppermint for nausea
• Marshmallow root or slippery elm for digestion

But even these must be used with care, as individual reactions can vary widely in people with PP. What’s “safe” for one person may trigger a full-blown episode in another.

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🧬 Individual Sensitivity Is Key

As I’ve written before, "every individual with Periodic Paralysis has their own unique potassium threshold". This also applies to herbs. A mild potassium shift in one person may be deadly in another.

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📝 Final Thoughts: Herbs Are Not a Shortcut

If you have Periodic Paralysis or think you might, managing potassium naturally is not as simple as taking a pill, drug, or herb. What works best is a well-monitored plan of:

• Careful dietary tracking
• Baseline and episode potassium testing (if tolerated)
• Avoiding known triggers (stress, exertion, fasting, meds, etc.)
• Using safe natural supports that don’t alter mineral levels
• And most of all — learning from others who have walked this same path

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❤️ You Are Not Alone

PP is rare and often misunderstood, but there are thousands of us who understand exactly what you're going through. That’s why the Periodic Paralysis Network exists — to support you with facts, care, and lived experience.

If you’re considering herbal treatments, please speak with someone who understands PP as a mineral metabolic disorder — not just a general naturopath or functional medicine provider.

We’re here to help you stay informed, stay safe, and stay strong.

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References and Additional Resources:

• Knittle-Hunter, S.Q. What is Periodic Paralysis? A Disease Like No Other
• Knittle-Hunter, S.Q. The Periodic Paralysis Guide and Workbook
• MedlinePlus: Herbal Safety Database
• NORD Rare Disease Database: Periodic Paralysis
• PubMed Studies on Electrolyte-altering Herbal Supplements

Picture: Herbs