Electrolytes disorder

Nephrology  >  Electrolytes disorder

Blood sample for electrolyte test

What is it?

Electrolytes are elements and compounds that occur naturally in the body. They control important physiologic functions.

An electrolyte disorder is a condition when all the electrolytes in the human body are either too high or too low. To maintain the proper function of the human body, it is important to keep the electrolyte balance. Severe imbalance of electrolytes can cause coma, seizures, or cardiac arrest.

What is it?

Blood sample for electrolyte test

Electrolytes are elements and compounds that occur naturally in the body. They control important physiologic functions.

An electrolyte disorder is a condition when all the electrolytes in the human body are either too high or too low. To maintain the proper function of the human body, it is important to keep the electrolyte balance. Severe imbalance of electrolytes can cause coma, seizures, or cardiac arrest.

Causes

  • Underlying diseases, such as acute or chronic kidney disease.
  • A loss of bodily fluids through prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating.
  • Fluid loss related to burns.
  • Certain medications can cause electrolyte disorders

Treatment

  • Intravenous (IV) fluids
  • IV medications
  • Oral medications and supplements
  • Haemodialysis

Symptoms

  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Fatigue
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Headaches
  • Numbness and tingling

Risk Factors

  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Cirrhosis
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Kidney disease
  • Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia
  • Trauma, such as severe burns or broken bones
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Adrenal gland disorders

What is Electrolytes disorder?

Electrolytes are elements and compounds that occur naturally in the body. They control important physiologic functions.

An electrolyte disorder is a condition when all the electrolytes in the human body are either too high or too low. To maintain the proper function of the human body, it is important to keep the electrolyte balance. Severe imbalance of electrolytes can cause coma, seizures, or cardiac arrest.

Causes

Symptoms

Treatment

Risk Factors

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