Sodium, calcium, potassium and phosphate are essential electrolytes in keeping the body functioning. Electrolyte imbalances are known as hyponatremia and hypernatremia, or too little and too much sodium; hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia, or too little and too much calcium; hypokalemia and hyperkalemia, or too little and too much potassium; and hypophosphatemia and hyperphosphatemia, or too little and too much phosphate. Many diseases and disorders can cause electrolyte imbalance.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a heat-related condition that affects the electrolyte balance and can become life-threatening, if not treated quickly. Dehydration is an excessive and unreplaced loss of body fluids. Causes of dehydration include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, overexposure to the sun, and medications such as diuretics, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Treatment for mild dehydration includes drinking fluids, such as sports drinks designed to restore electrolytes and salt balance. For moderate to severe dehydration, hospitalization may be required for intravenous fluid administration.
Anorexia
Anorexia nervosa, an aversion to food leading to starvation and emaciation, is a condition in which a person has an intense fear of gaining weight. Heart disease, the most common cause of death in severe anorexia, may be the result of an electrolyte imbalance, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. The dehydration that occurs with anorexia has a direct affect on the calcium and potassium required for maintaining a normal heartbeat. Treatment goals for anorexia include restoring and maintaining a normal electrolyte balance through nutritional rehabilitation and intravenous feeding, if necessary.
Legionnaire's Disease
Legionnaire's disease, caused by the Legionella bacteria, is an acute respiratory infection with symptoms that include chest pain, headache, fever, joint pain, cough, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath. Most infections occur in middle-aged and older people exposed to the bacteria, according to MedlinePlus.com. Treatment for Legionnaire's disease includes antibiotics, oxygen and replacement of fluid and electrolytes. Possible complications include lung failure and death.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease affects 26 million American adults, reports the National Kidney Foundation. The kidneys regulate water and electrolytes in the blood and release hormones that control blood pressure and promote strong bones. Chronic kidney disease, caused by diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, presents with symptoms that include fatigue, muscle cramps, itchy skin, swollen feet and trouble concentrating. Possible complications of chronic kidney failure include a sudden rise in the potassium level in the blood, according to MayoClinic.com.
