Electrolytes are electrically charged molecules that are important in your body's many functions. These include muscle movement, transmission of signals from your brain to the rest of your body, fluid balance and heart rhythm. For this reason, electrolyte imbalances can have serious health consequences. Vomiting is a common cause of electrolyte imbalances.
Causes
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are several causes of vomiting. These include illness, early pregnancy, seasickness, severe pain, toxins and medications, and stress. Infections are common causes of vomiting, and these include stomach viruses, gallbladder infection, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and meningitis and other infections of the brain and the nervous system. Any cause of repetitive vomiting, which leads to dehydration, can cause electrolyte imbalances.
Considerations
Sodium and potassium are the most common electrolytes affected by vomiting. According to the Merck Manual, vomiting and dehydration can cause a dangerous elevation of sodium, a condition called hypernatremia. Hyponatremia, or low sodium, can result from over hydration after vomiting. Likewise, severe vomiting can lower your potassium, a condition called hypokalemia. Hyperkalemia, or high potassium, can result from vomiting in certain conditions, like diabetes.
Identification
Dehydration due to vomiting can cause several symptoms, including dry lips and mouth, dry skin, decreased urine output, rapid heart rate and weakness. In severe hypernatremia, the skin develops a doughy appearance. Most electrolyte imbalances can be detected with a blood test called a basic metabolic panel. This test also checks if the kidneys have been affected by the vomiting. This is important as kidney damage can further worsen electrolyte imbalances.
Effects
Abnormal sodium levels can cause dangerous fluid shifts that can affect your brain. Hypernatremia can drain fluid out of your brain and, if corrected too quickly, can lead to brain swelling. Hyponatremia can also cause brain swelling. Both conditions can cause confusion, lethargy and other changes in mental status, and can lead to seizures and coma. Abnormal potassium levels can cause muscle weakness, cramps and arrhythmias, or dangerous abnormal heart rhythms.
Treatment
The treatment of vomiting depends on its cause. It is important to maintain appropriate hydration, which can prevent electrolyte imbalances. Sodium and potassium supplementation, either oral or intravenous, may be necessary. In severe cases of sodium abnormalities, slow correction with close monitoring in a hospital setting may prevent complications.
