Electrolyte And Fluid Disorders - How To Handle It?

A person eating a regular diet should generally have adequate levels of electrolytes. However, if a person does not have proper meals, there can be an imbalance. Eating too much processed foods, for instance, could increase sodium levels. A bout of illness with vomiting or diarrhoea can affect fluid and electrolyte balance. Any metabolic disorder like diabetes or hypertension can affect these levels, so it is essential to keep a constant watch. Drink more fluids which contain electrolytes as they will help you recover from the illness and help your body function to its optimal level.

These electrolytes are available in regular foods and take care of daily needs. However, in cases where there is any bout of illness, including vomiting or diarrhoea, additional fluids and electrolytes should be included. Even strenuous physical activity requires that muscles are working extra, so electrolytes would be required. When you are out in a physically taxing activity, drink not just fluids but add some electrolyte supplements and see your energy levels soar.

These three minerals are essential for proper functioning of the body. Be it for muscles, bones, or brain functioning, they are very critical. Significantly low sodium can even cause convulsions and seizures. All electrolytes circulate in the body via fluids, so drinking enough fluids makes it all the more important. Both high levels and low levels of electrolytes can cause problems with health, so maintaining optimal levels is important. Make sure your body gets the required amount of these major electrolytes. Eating a healthy diet should take care of these daily needs.

Though imbalance in fluids and electrolytes is common, they will always not disappear on their own. If not identified and corrected, they could continue and end up in severe metabolic issues. Increased sodium levels are the cause of hypertension, and identifying at an earlier stage will definitely help. Similarly, with calcium and potassium levels. Treatment can range from simple fluid correction to electrolyte replacement to medications to dialysis. The earlier the electrolyte disorder is identified, the simpler the treatment would be. So, do not ignore small symptoms like bone and muscle weakness.