Electrolytes are charged particles that help to transmit impulses to nerves and muscle tissues. A balance of electrolytes is necessary for normal functioning. When an imbalance occurs, complications can arise that can lead to life-threatening situations. Recognizing early signs and symptoms can help prevent untoward outcomes.
History
An electrolyte imbalance occurs when the concentration of a specific electrolyte is either too high or too low. The concentration of electrolytes is significantly affected by the amount of fluid in the body. Fluid balance is largely controlled by the kidneys and their ability to produce urine. Dehydration is a common cause of electrolyte imbalances. It occurs when water is lost from the body and not replaced fairly quickly.
Sodium
According to the Merck Manual, low sodium also known as hyponatremia, may result from not consuming enough sodium in the diet, excreting too much sodium in sweat or urine, or being overhydrated. Medications called diuretics cause the kidneys to excrete more sodium than water and can result in low sodium levels.
Complications of Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is the result of high water content without equivalent sodium. Symptoms of hyonatremia may include confusion, drowsiness, muscle cramps and seizures. According to "Fluids and Electrolytes DeMystified," the confusion and drowsiness is caused by the movement of water into brain cells causing them to swell and disrupt normal functioning. Muscle cramping is the result of a disruption between sodium and potassium electrolytes. The treatment for low sodium is to restore the level to normal gradually by giving sodium and water, usually through an intravenous.
Potassium
Potassium plays a major role in the action potential or excitability of nerve and muscle cells. A common cause of low potassium, called hypokalemia, is the use of diuretic medications. The diuretics cause the kidneys to excrete more potassium, as well as water, in the urine. Additional causes of hypokalemia may include excessive vomiting, diarrhea, fasting or starvation.
Complications of Hypokalemia
As noted in the Merck Manual, if potassium levels become very low it will cause fatigue, confusion and muscle weakness. Extremely low levels of potassium could lead to paralysis and abnormal heart rhythms, resulting in death. Treatment for mild hypokalemia can include eating foods rich in potassium or potassium supplements. In severe cases of hypokalemia, potassium may need to be replaced though and intravenous solution.
References
- Merck Manual: Problems With Electrolyte Balance
- "Fluids and Electrolytes DeMystified"; McGraw Hill; 2008
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