Electrolyte Disorders or imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of one or more electrolytes in the body. Electrolytes are essential for your body’s everyday function. Each electrolyte performs a different task for the body. They regulate your body’s chemical reactions and maintain your body’s fluid balance. Some common electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and more. An electrolyte imbalance often signals another problem in the body, like kidney disease.

Symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance will differ depending on multiple factors, including the severity of the imbalance and the type of electrolyte.

Symptoms of an Electrolyte Imbalance may include:

• Confusion and irritability
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm)
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Numbness
• Tingling in extremities
• Diarrhea

If you or your provider are concerned about an electrolyte imbalance, a simple blood test called an electrolyte panel will measure your body’s electrolyte levels and check for other substances in the blood.

Treating an Electrolyte Imbalance

Treatment for an electrolyte imbalance will differ depending on the cause of the imbalance. Some will resolve on their own and some require oral rehydration or electrolyte drinks, a sugar, salt, and water solution, or medical treatments including IV fluids, IV medicines, or medication and supplements. Those with kidney failure may require hemodialysis to correct an imbalance.

For further consultation regarding electrolyte imbalances, make an appointment to see board-certified nephrologist, Sudip Ghimire, MD, FASN of TPMG Nephrology. To schedule an appointment, call (757) 599-3436.