Electrolytes and their imbalance

Electrolytes

There are many chemicals in the bloodstream that regulate important functions of bodies. These chemicals are called electrolytes. The human body’s nerve reactions and muscle functions are dependent upon the proper exchange of these electrolyte ions outside and inside cells. Examples of electrolytes are calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium.

Electrolyte Imbalance: 

The level of electrolytes in the body is abnormal called an electrolyte imbalance. An excess or deficiency of certain electrolytes may lead to abnormality in various functions of the body. The most serious electrolyte disturbance involves abnormalities in the levels of Sodium, Potassium, or Calcium. Other electrolyte imbalance is less common. There are many causes of electrolyte imbalance, including rapid water loss through diarrhea, vomiting, perspiration, injury, blood loss, fluid loss from burns, eating disorders, alcoholism, cancer, diabetes and certain medication. There are many causes for an electrolyte imbalance. Causes for an electrolyte imbalance may include: Loss of body fluids from prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or high fever. 

Electrolytes Malabsorption:

The body may be unable to absorb these electrolytes due to a variety of stomach disorders, medications, or may be how food is taken in Hormonal or endocrine disorders and Kidney disease.

Symptoms of Electrolyte Imbalance: 

• Blood test results indicate an altered potassium, magnesium, sodium, or calcium levels, may experience muscle spasm, weakness, twitching, or convulsions. 
• Blood test results showing low sodium levels may lead to: irregular heartbeat, confusion, blood pressure changes, nervous system or bone disorder.
• Blood test results showing high levels of calcium may lead to: weakness or twitching of the muscles, numbness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat and blood pressure changes. 

Written & Verified by Diksha Bhatla

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