Electrolyte disturbance

Electrolyte plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis of the organism. They help to regulate myocardial and neurological function, fluid balance, release oxigênionos tissues, acid-base balance and more. Electrolyte abnormalities may develop by the following mechanisms: excessive intake reduction or elimination of an electrolyte, reduction or elimination diminished or excessive thereof. The most common cause of electrolyte disturbances is renal insufficiency.

The most serious electrolyte disturbances involve abnormalities in the levels of sodium, potassium and / or calcium. Other electrolyte imbalances are less common and severe and often occurs together with the previous ones. The chronic abuse of laxatives and severe vomiting or diarrhea can lead to severe electrolyte disturbances in association with dehydration (electrolyte disturbance). Holders of bulimia or anorexia have higher risk of developing electrolyte imbalances.

Table of common electrolyte disturbances

Electrolyte Formula ionic Elevation Reduction

Sodium

Na + hypernatremia

Hyponatremia

Potassium

K + hyperkalemia

hypokalemia

Calcium

Ca2 + hypercalcemia

hypocalcemia

Magnesium

Mg2 + hypermagnesaemia

hypomagnesemia

Chlorine

Cl-hyperchloremia

hypochloremia

Phosphate

PO43-hyperphosphatemia

hypophosphatemia

Bicarbonate

HCO3-hiperbicarbonatemia

hipobicarbonatemia