What does the presence of U waves on an EKG typically indicate?

The presence of U waves on an electrocardiogram (EKG) is typically associated with hypokalemia, which refers to low levels of potassium in the blood. U waves are small deflections that can appear after the T wave in the cardiac cycle and may become more prominent as potassium levels decrease. In hypokalemia, the myocardial cells become more hyperpolarized, which can lead to the development of these U waves.

In healthy individuals or those with normal potassium levels, U waves are generally not seen, or they are minimal and of no clinical significance. The presence of U waves could suggest the need for further evaluation of potassium levels since low potassium can predispose individuals to arrhythmias and can impact cardiac contractility. Monitoring and managing those levels is vital for preventing complications associated with hypokalemia, especially in cardiovascular patients.