Understanding Electrolyte Imbalance and Its Effects

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What causes an electrolyte imbalance?

Electrolyte imbalances are often indicators of other problems in the body. For that reason, they play an important role in the diagnosis of many different medical conditions. Sometimes, however, no specific cause can be identified for an electrolyte imbalance.

What are the effects of electrolyte imbalance?

The effects may depend on which electrolyte levels are imbalanced, how severe the issue is, and whether a person has other health conditions. Electrolyte imbalances can upset the normal functioning of the body, which may lead to serious complications. For instance, low sodium levels in the blood can cause hyponatremia.

What are the most common electrolyte imbalances?

Electrolyte imbalances are particularly common in elderly people and in people who are critically ill. One of the most common electrolyte imbalances is hyponatremia , low levels of sodium in the blood. Hyponatremia can occur when there is a decrease in the amount of blood circulating in your body. This can happen with conditions such as:

What is an electrolyte imbalance?

An electrolyte imbalance occurs when certain mineral levels in your blood get too high or too low. Symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance vary depending on the severity and electrolyte type, including weakness and muscle spasms. A blood test called an electrolyte panel checks levels.

What are the symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance?

An electrolyte imbalance occurs if the body has too much or too little water. Symptoms of an imbalance include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. People get electrolytes from food and beverages. The kidneys and liver help maintain electrolyte balance.

What Is Electrolyte Imbalance

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24019-electrolyte-imbalance
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/electrolyte-imbalances-4800164
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/electrolyte-disorders
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/electrolyte-imbalance
5. https://www.osmosis.org/answers/electrolyte-imbalances
6. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-electrolyte-imbalance
7. https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/symptoms-and-conditions/electrolyte-imbalance
8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolyte_imbalance

Electrolyte Imbalance Information

1. https://www.ausmed.com.au/learn/articles/normal-electrolyte-levels
2. https://medlineplus.gov/fluidandelectrolytebalance.html