Electrolyte Abnormalities

Electrolytes are chemicals naturally occurring in your body fluids. They include chloride, phosphate, potassium, sodium, and calcium. These are important for normal body functions and should be present in certain concentrations.

The kidneys maintain a balance of electrolytes by shifting sodium levels as the body requires.

When the level of electrolytes in your body is too low or too high, the resulting condition is called an electrolyte imbalance.

Maintaining an electrolyte balance is vital for your body to function smoothly.

Why Are Electrolytes Important?

• Regulate fluid levels in the body and blood plasma
• Keep the blood pH in the normal range
• Allow muscle contractions, including heartbeat
• Transmit messages from the muscles, nerve cells, heart, and other cells
• Help in blood clotting
• Form new tissues

What Are the Causes of an Electrolyte Imbalance?

An electrolyte imbalance is caused when you lose a large amount of body fluids. For example, if you are sweating or vomiting too much, it can lower the levels of some electrolytes in the body.

In fact, when you're sweating, you lose 2% to 6% of your body weight. If you do not hydrate sufficiently, sweating can lower electrolyte concentration.

In some cases, burns may lead to electrolyte imbalance. In others, medications for underlying diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, can also disturb the normal electrolyte balance of the body.

What Are the Symptoms of an Electrolyte Imbalance?

Since electrolytes are needed for essential body functions, an increase or decrease in their number is quickly noticeable. Some symptoms of electrolyte imbalance are:

• Cramps
• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Mental confusion