The body sustains normal biochemical processes like heart rhythm and brain functions with the help of tiny, electrically charged ion particles, or electrolytes. A network of chemicals and pathways in the body is working continuously to preserve nervous system homeostasis. Any slight disturbance in the network can result in mild to severe nerve damage. Collectively, the electrolytes rely on healthy kidneys to maintain the delicate balance, and the individual electrolytes further share in a reciprocal relationship for nurturing that balance.
Electrolyte Interactions
Sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium are the primary electrolytes that maintain cellular fluid balance. Sodium and water work as a unit in your body to fill the gaps in between cells so nerve signals can be transmitted from cell to cell. Potassium relies on the right amount of extracellular sodium to maintain the balance within your cells. Additionally, adequate levels of magnesium must be present for potassium to reach the inside of the cell. Magnesium cannot do its job in regulating potassium without the right balance of calcium. Each electrolyte has multiple functions in your body, and maintaining fluid balance is imperative to sustaining the transmission of electrical signals throughout your nervous system.
Role of the Kidneys
The kidneys play a vital role as the filtration system for your body. When too much of a particular electrolyte is present in the bloodstream, your kidneys pull the excess out and send it through the urinary tract for elimination. The filtering process is constant, but damage to the kidneys can slow the filtration process and cause any or all electrolytes to accumulate in your bloodstream. Generally, this results in fluid retention, swelling, urinary output changes, weakness and cramping. Poor kidney functions may also cause sudden spikes in blood potassium or drops in sodium levels and result in neuropathy and chronic nerve damage or neuralgia, nerve sensitivity, and pain along the entire nerve path.
Neuropathy and Neuralgia
Neuropathy can damage the peripheral nervous system, impacting nerve communications to your brain and spinal cord. Interrupted signaling can cause you to experience temporary numbness, tingling, weakness or touch sensitivity in your extremities. In serious cases, organ or gland dysfunction occurs. Hundreds of neuropathies exist, and although there is no cure, treatment focuses on minimizing discomfort and treating the underlying cause. Neuralgia, or nerve pain, can occur as a symptom of neuropathy or as a result of other medical complications. Chronic kidney insufficiency increases the risk of neuralgia. Symptoms may be intermittent, and treatment aims to reverse or control the nerve pain by targeting the cause.
Electrolyte Balance
Healthy adults can maintain electrolyte balance with a nutritious diet that includes daily servings of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts or beans, lean protein and dairy. Drinking plenty of fluids -- especially water -- throughout the day also aids in electrolyte balance. If you exercise it is important that you maintain hydration before, during and after your workout. Diuretic medications can cause excess fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance, so you should consult your physician for recommendations on how to sustain electrolytes when taking diuretics. Reduce your risk of kidney complications by maintaining a healthy weight, limiting your alcohol use and getting regular health exams.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Chronic Kidney Failure; May 2010
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet; February 18, 2011
- National Center for Biotechnology Information; Neuralgia; September 2010
- Modern Medicine; Restoring Electrolyte Balance; Sonia M. Astle, RN; May 2005
- Linus Pauling Institute: Minerals
- Periodic Paralysis News Desk; Role of Potassium in Maintaining Health; Elson M. Haas, M.D.; February 2011
