Electrolytes

As the name implies, electrolytes are substances that dissolve to produce a solution that conducts electrical impulses. Electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, and hydrogen phosphate. 

Important points to remember about electrolytes include:

• The body needs electrolytes to sustain life.
• Electrolytes are found in fruits and vegetables.
• Electrolyte imbalance or deficiency results in symptoms of confusion, irregular heart rate, blood pressure changes, numbness, muscular twitching, weakness, and, in severe cases, seizures.
• The elderly are susceptible to electrolyte imbalances.
• Various diseases, conditions, and medications affect electrolyte levels:
  • Kidney disease affects all electrolytes.
  • Heart failure causes a low sodium level.
  • Diabetes is associated with low sodium levels.
  • Cancer is associated with high calcium levels.
    
  • Certain diuretics cause loss of potassium through the kidneys.
    
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration cause electrolyte imbalances.
    
  • Anorexia and bulimia affect electrolyte levels.
    

Electrolyte replacement may be necessary in patients presenting with these symptoms. Oral replacement solutions, such as Gatorade or Pedialyte, may need to be diluted for use in infants or an elderly patients due to their high electrolyte concentration. It is always better to err on the side of caution and consult the patient's provider prior to instituting electrolyte replacement therapy.