Choose all the conditions in which nerve and muscle cells become less excitable:

A. Hypokalemia
B. Rapid-onset hyperkalemia
C. Slow-onset hyperkalemia

The conditions in which nerve and muscle cells become less excitable include hypokalemia (Option A) and potentially slow-onset hyperkalemia (Option C) if potassium levels become too high. Rapid-onset hyperkalemia (Option B) typically causes increased excitability initially. Therefore, the correct options are A and C.
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Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-03

In this question, we are looking at the excitability of nerve and muscle cells, which can be influenced by potassium levels in the body. Here are the conditions listed and their effects:

Hypokalemia : This condition refers to lower-than-normal levels of potassium in the blood. In hypokalemia, the membrane potential of cells becomes more negative (hyperpolarized), making it harder for the cells to reach the threshold potential necessary for firing an action potential. Therefore, hypokalemia makes nerve and muscle cells less excitable.

Rapid-onset hyperkalemia : In this situation, there is a rapid increase in potassium levels in the blood. Initially, this can make cells more excitable because potassium affects the resting potential of cells. However, if the levels become extreme, it can lead to inactivation of sodium channels, ultimately reducing excitability.

Slow-onset hyperkalemia : When hyperkalemia develops slowly, cells adapt to the increased potassium levels. This adjustment can lead to reduced excitability over time, as the cells become less responsive.


Based on this information, both hypokalemia and slow-onset hyperkalemia are conditions where nerve and muscle cells become less excitable. Rapid-onset hyperkalemia initially increases excitability but may reduce it in extreme cases.
So, the correct choices are:

Hypokalemia
Slow-onset hyperkalemia

Answered by ElijahBenjaminCarter | 2025-07-07