Depression has multiple causes and can last for short periods of time or become chronic. Experiencing emotional trauma, such as loss of a loved one, often leads to natural feelings of sadness and is usually short-lived. Prolonged and unattributable feelings associated with depression are often caused by hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiency or genetic factors, although electrolyte imbalance can also play a role. Electrolytes are needed by your body for fluid balance and conductance of electrical current, which is a primary way your nervous system functions. Consult with your doctor if you are feeling depressed and unsure why.
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are ionized or electrically charged salts that circulate in your blood and other fluids. Electrolytes are either positively or negatively charged and conduct electricity, which helps to spread electrical messages around your body and regulate the function of your neuromuscular, endocrine and excretory systems, according to “Medical Biochemistry: Human Metabolism in Health and Disease.” Further, they balance acid-base or pH levels and facilitate the passage of fluid among and within your cells through the process of osmosis. Electrolytes include ionic forms of bicarbonate, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium and sodium.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Electrolyte imbalances commonly occur with severe fluid loss in short periods of time from diarrhea, vomiting and excessive sweating. Electrolyte imbalance can occur without dehydration, but dehydration typically leads to reduced or imbalanced electrolytes. Many diseases also lead to imbalance, such as malabsorption problems; diabetes; and diseases of the kidney, liver and thyroid gland. Trauma, such as burns and fractures, and medications, particularly diuretics, corticosteroids, antihypertensive and antipsychotic drugs, may also lead to electrolyte imbalance according to “Human Biochemistry and Disease.”
Imbalance and Depression
According to PsychologyOnline.org, electrolyte imbalance may cause neuropsychiatric manifestations that closely mimic functional disorders such as clinical depression. The researchers note that imbalances of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium in particular are associated with depression. Specifically, low levels of sodium, potassium and magnesium, and high levels of calcium, are linked to depressive episodes. On the other hand, high levels of sodium, potassium and magnesium, and low levels of calcium, are more often associated with irritability. The researchers conclude that in most instances correction of the underlying electrolyte imbalance will alleviate the psychiatric symptoms.
Balancing Electrolytes
Balancing electrolytes depends on the underlying cause of the problem and the type of electrolyte involved. If the imbalance is caused by a poor diet or dehydration, then nutritional changes, increased water consumption and reduced caffeine consumption are often recommended. If medications such as diuretics triggered the imbalance, then discontinuing or adjusting the drug therapy may help. Ultimately, fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy, either intravenously or by mouth, can reverse electrolyte depletion, although it may return if you have an underlying disease. Talk to your doctor about appropriate levels of electrolytes and factors that can deplete them.
References
- “Medical Biochemistry: Human Metabolism in Health and Disease”; Miriam D. Rosenthal et al; 2009
- “Human Biochemistry and Disease”; Gerald Litwack; 2008
- PsychologyOnline.org: Electrolyte and Fluid Imbalance: Neuropsychiatric Manifestations
