Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms

Certain minerals or electrolytes like sodium chloride (salt), potassium and calcium are required by the human body in order to carry out specific functions. These minerals are present in all bodily fluids like blood, urine, etc. However, sometimes the level of electrolytes in the body increases or decreases due to certain reasons. This condition is known as electrolyte imbalance. It is also known as the body salt imbalance or the body chemical imbalance. Let us take a look at the causes of electrolyte imbalance in detail.

Electrolyte Imbalance Causes
One of the most common cause of this condition is dehydration. In most of the cases, electrolyte imbalance results due to dehydration caused after a strenuous exercise regime. Electrolyte imbalance accompanies several underlying diseases and disorders. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, diarrhea, vomiting, renal failure are some conditions that can cause electrolyte imbalance. On the other hand, eating disorders, alcoholism, anorexia nervosa, malabsorption, hormonal disorders, etc. are also some common reasons for having an electrolyte imbalance in the body. Sometimes, certain medications like diuretics, antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs may also lead to electrolyte imbalance. Let us now take a look at electrolyte imbalance signs and symptoms in detail.

Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms
Electrolyte imbalance can occur due to change in level of any of the above mentioned minerals. The following are the common symptoms of electrolyte imbalance.

• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps
• Muscle spasms
• Weakness
• Restlessness
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Fainting
• Irritability
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Trembling

Another common symptom is infrequent urination or passing dark-colored urine. The person may not feel like urinating for nearly 7-8 hours. On the other hand, in case of severe electrolyte imbalance, following symptoms may also be seen.

• Coma
• Slow heart rate
• Seizures
• Palpitations
• Low blood pressure
• Lack of coordination
• Constipation
• Stiff joints

Electrolyte Imbalance Treatment
It is very essential to identify electrolyte imbalance symptoms in order to get them treated as soon as possible. The doctor will advise you to undertake blood and urine test as it will help diagnose the condition. An X-ray will also aid in diagnosing the underlying conditions leading to electrolyte imbalance. The treatment for electrolyte imbalance is based on the causes and gravity of the condition. Eating foods containing potassium and calcium can help in treating electrolyte imbalance caused due to minor conditions. Secondly, having electrolyte containing drinks can also help in treating this condition. In more severe cases, IV (intravenous) fluids are used to bring the electrolyte level to normal.

If you identify the symptoms, you can have water immediately to overcome dehydration associated with electrolyte imbalance. On the other hand, people undertaking sports activities need to have sports drink or electrolyte drinks as drinking water does not provide all the essential minerals and electrolytes. If the symptoms worsen or one cannot identify and relate the symptoms of electrolyte imbalance, he should consult the doctor immediately.

As preventive measure, you should be careful while undertaking exercise and other sports activities. You can prevent dehydration by drinking adequate amounts of fluids and water, especially in the summer season. On the other hand, you should not be under the illusion that dehydration takes place only during summer, as there are chances of suffering from electrolyte imbalance even in winter. Lastly, note that having a well-balanced diet helps in preventing electrolyte imbalance to a great extent. Take care!