Sixty percent of the body contains water, and every system in the body requires water to function properly. The Mayo Clinic notes that water is lost daily through differing means, such as perspiration, bowels and breathing. Electrolytes are essential minerals in the body containing an electric charge. The electrolytes keep blood chemistry balanced, regulate body systems and aid in maintaining the muscles. When fluid intake in the body changes, this directly impacts the balance of electrolytes in the system. The fluid and electrolyte imbalance issues that occur typically result from specific level changes in sodium, potassium and calcium.
Hypernatremia and Hyponatremia
Sodium regulates the amount of water retained and excreted by the body through the kidneys. Elevated sodium levels lead to loss of fluids, also known as dehydration. Inadequate water intake, sodium retention and excessive fluid loss results in hypernatremia. On the other hand, excessively low sodium levels cause hyponatremia. In both cases, specific factors may precipitate the conditions, such as diabetes, use of diuretics or inadequate dietary intake of sodium. In severe cases, dangerous conditions occur, such as brain swelling, coma or death. The Mayo Clinic indicates that treatment for mild to moderate sodium imbalance involves administering a sodium solution and medications. Additionally, prevention through taking precautions during high activity such as drinking more water or sports beverages may help in decreasing the chance of imbalance.
Hyperkalemia and Hypokalemia
Potassium aids in the growth and maintenance of the body and also serves to stimulate and contract the muscles through the nerves. Excessive potassium levels or hyperkalemia causes weakness, muscle pain and diarrhea. Hypokalemia, or depleted potassium levels, has similar symptoms in addition to possible paralysis and increased urination. Both conditions result from an imbalance in fluids and potassium levels in the body. The American Heart Association suggests eating foods high in potassium, such as bananas and potatoes, as well as paying attention to fluid intake during heavy exercise. Additional factors leading to potassium imbalance include kidney disease, heart disease and eating disorders.
Hypercalcemia and Hypocalcemia
Calcium maintains body health, bones and muscle functioning. When this electrolyte is elevated, a condition called hypercalcemia develops. Symptoms of this include depression, confusion and irregular heartbeat. Hypocalcemia, decreased levels of calcium, also present an imbalance problem causing symptoms associated with muscle cramping, convulsions and facial twitching, according to the Mayo Clinic. Conditions contributing to calcium imbalance include thyroid disorders, vitamin D deficiency and medications such as heparin.
Maintaining Balance
The most effective way to maintain proper electrolyte and fluid balance in the body is to practice healthy nutrition habits. Prevention of electrolyte disorders requires understanding basics about daily intake and the foods that aid in supplying the recommended portions. Additional electrolytes to consider include magnesium for muscle health, chloride for blood pressure regulation and bicarbonate for regulating blood acidity levels.
