Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl)

Electrolytes are minerals that have an electrical charge when they are dissolved in water or body fluids. You have electrolytes in your blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids. This blood test that measures levels of the body's main electrolytes in serum:

1. Sodium, which helps control the amount of fluid in your body. It also helps your nerves and muscles work properly.
2. Chloride, which also helps control the amount of fluid in your body. In addition, it helps maintain healthy blood volume and blood pressure.
3. Potassium, which helps your cells, heart, and muscles work properly.

Why consider this test?

The serum electrolytes test is ordered as part of a routine health check-up or to help diagnose and monitor conditions that affect electrolyte levels. It is also ordered for patients with hypertension, kidney disease, or disorders of the heart, liver, or endocrine system.

Electrolytes are important as they help in -

• Balance the amount of water in your body
• Balance your body's acid-base (pH) level
• Move nutrients into your cells
• Move waste out of your cells
• Support your muscle and nerve function
• Keep your heart rate and rhythm steady
• Keep your blood pressure stable
• Keep your bones and teeth healthy

Who should get this test done?

You may need this test if you have symptoms indicating that your body's electrolytes may be out of balance. These include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion and irritability
• Weakness
• Irregular or fast heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle weakness, cramps, or spasms
• Numbness or tingling in your arms, legs, fingers, and toes

More Information

Other names – Blood  Electrolytes, Blood Sodium, Potassium, Chloride

Abnormal electrolyte levels can be caused by many different conditions, including Dehydration, kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, lung infection (such as tuberculosis) etc. An electrolyte imbalance can also happen if you take certain medicines, such as Antibiotics, Antacids, especially if you take large amounts, Chemotherapy medicines, Diuretics ("water pills") and Steroid medicines.