Electrolytes are present in the blood and body tissues. These ions are salts that conduct electricity and are essential for a variety of metabolic processes. The body needs a proper balance of electrolytes for ideal fluid absorption and excretion, heart function and muscle coordination. When this balance is disrupted, the way water and nutrients move in and out of cells is altered.
Types
Sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium are some of the most common electrolytes found in the body. Each has a specific function, but an imbalance of one can cause changes in the balance of other electrolytes. Too much or too little of an electrolyte caused by poor diet or dehydration can result in an imbalance, which has the potential to cause serious health conditions.
Role of Electrolytes
Sodium plays a role in how much urine the kidneys produce in addition to transmitting nerve impulses and causing muscle contractions. Calcium is needed for strong bones, whereas magnesium is involved in cellular metabolism. Potassium regulates fluid balance in the cells and is another electrolyte that helps to transmit nerve impulses. Too high or too low a concentration of any of these minerals can cause electrolyte imbalance and related symptoms.
Causes
Eating a poor diet is one cause of electrolyte imbalance. Similarly, you can suffer an electrolyte imbalance if you don't eat an adequate amount of food throughout the day. Dehydration is another common cause of electrolyte imbalance. Illness, excessive exercise or not drinking enough fluids can cause dehydration. Individuals with cancer and other serious diseases often suffer electrolyte imbalances.
Diagnosis
Electrolyte imbalance can be diagnosed through lab tests. The American Association for Clinical Chemistry points out that electrolyte levels are often tested as part of routine blood work. In other cases, your doctor might test for imbalances if you are experiencing symptoms such as arrhythmia, confusion, weakness or edema. If you have cancer or another chronic medical condition that is known to cause imbalances, your doctor will probably order blood tests. The electrolyte panel is also used to monitor the effect of treatment on a known imbalance, or to check to make certain that an imbalance does not recur.
Symptoms
Electrolytes are necessary for a number of vital body functions, consequently a range of symptoms can signal a problem. Chemocare.com lists bouts of confusion, feelings of general fatigue and muscle weakness as common symptoms. Irregular heart rhythms, edema and unexplained nausea can be other signs of an electrolyte balance.
Treatment
According to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, treatment depends on the type of imbalance and its cause. Supplemental electrolytes are often used to treat imbalance, although a person might need IV treatment to help restore the body's electrolyte imbalance to healthy levels. In some cases, cardiac monitoring may be required. If you are retaining too many sodium ions in your body, your doctor may instruct you to restrict your salt intake. Treatment of poor eating habits, an eating disorder or other underlying health condition may also be necessary.
Warning
Electrolyte imbalance can be a serious or even life-threatening condition. Follow your physician's instructions carefully if you require treatment. Sometimes hospitalization is necessary until electrolytes are restored to normal levels.
