Electrolyte imbalance occurs when the body experiences an abnormal water level. According to the Merck Manual of Health and Aging, the most frequently treated forms of electrolyte imbalance are those related to sodium, potassium and calcium. Treatments often depend on the underlying causes of the disorder and rely on supplementation or dietary changes.
Sodium
Sodium can create an electrolyte imbalance resulting in either hyponatremia, in which sodium levels are too low, or hypernatremia, in which sodium levels are too high. According to Lab Tests Online, this condition can occur because of dehydration or overhydration, excreting too much or too little urine, consuming too little or too much sodium and excessive sweating during exercise and hot weather. Diuretics, according to the Merck Manual of Health and Aging, will help the kidneys produce more urine, whereas altering diet can reduce an overabundance of sodium. Adding or reducing salt in food is the easiest way to manage levels, but this treatment should be carried out only under the care of a physician.
Potassium
Potassium can dip to low levels, resulting in a condition called hypokalemia, or surge to high levels, causing hyperkalemia. More common in the aging population, both conditions are contingent on adequate kidney function and the likelihood of becoming dehydrated or overhydrated. Lab Tests Online mentions that chronic disease may also contribute to these conditions, as many of them require the use of diuretics and laxatives, involve movement disorders that prevent organs from functioning properly, or accompany fever, diarrhea and vomiting. Supplementation is required treatment in the case of hypokalemia, and treating underlying causes will relieve symptoms in both imbalances.
Calcium
Texas Oncology defines calcium imbalance as a condition of either hypocalcemia, low calcium levels, or hypercalcemia, high calcium levels. In hypocalcemia the low calcium level can be linked to sepsis, which is a widespread infection in the blood and tissues, an underactive thyroid, pancreatitis or a hormone deficiency. Some medications also deplete calcium levels, requiring supplementation, diet changes and treatment of any underlying conditions. The Merck Manual of Health and Aging posits that hypercalcemia is caused by overactive hormones in certain cancers and Paget's disease and results in bone materials floating into the bloodstream. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Hypercalcemia may also be accompanied by dehydration, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, confusion, coma and possibly death. Addressing infection, disease or malnutrition is key.
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