Why Is the Heart So Sensitive to Potassium and Calcium

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The Answer is The heart is polarized like other cells by the internal concentrations of potassium. Changes in potassium can lead to arrhythmias via hypokalemia or hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia is more serious as it can lead to cardiac arrest. The heart is an interesting muscle in that its sarcoplasmic reticulum's release of calcium is dependent on external calcium. That is why the heart contractility and heart rate are both related to calcium.

Why Is the Heart So Sensitive to Potassium and Calcium

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Why Is the Heart So Sensitive to Potassium and Calcium

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