What kind of exercise should people with ion channel diseases undertake?
HYPOKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS There are no specific guidelines as to what level of exercise is appropriate for HypoKPP. What we do know is that most people with HypoKPP note that if they undertake strenuous exercise which is atypical for them, followed by rest or sleep, they will precipitate an attack. Factors that increase the likelihood of an attack after exercise include a meal rich in carbohydrates and sodium, alcohol consumption, exposure to cold and emotional stress. The severity of the episode may vary from mild weakness to severe generalized paralysis. The facial, respiratory and sphincter muscles are generally spared. If those with HypoKPP feel weakness coming on, mild exercise may stave off the full-blown attack of weakness; however this is not always successful. The episode of weakness may be preceded by a vague sensation of heaviness in the lumbosacral region, thighs and calves. The heaviness feeling may then spread to involve other muscle groups, primarily those in the ar
