What is this test?
Serum electrolytes is a laboratory test performed on a blood sample to measure the amount of Potassium, sodium, and Chloride in the blood. Electrolytes are charged chemicals essential for normal nerve and muscle functioning and maintaining acid-base balance in the body.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- As a part of routine health check-up
- To help in the diagnosis of electrolyte imbalance in the body
- To help in the diagnosis of fluid imbalance body
- Electrolyte imbalance in the body may help in the diagnosis of following diseases:
- High blood pressure
- Kidney diseases
- Liver diseases
- Heart diseases.
- What are the symptoms of electrolyte imbalance?
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Convulsions
- Seizures
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. However, inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What are the symptoms of hypernatremia (high sodium levels)?
- Increased thirst
- Swelling in feet and hands
- Unexplained weakness
- Fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
- What are the symptoms of hyponatremia (low sodium levels)?
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Hallucinations
- What are the symptoms of high potassium levels?
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Muscle weakness.
- What are the symptoms of low potassium levels?
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Irregular heartbeat.
Normal range:
Potassium: 3.5 to 5 mmol/L
Sodium: 135 to 145 mmol/L
Chloride: 98 to 106 mmol/L
- Interpretation of test results:
Causes of abnormal electrolyte levels:
- Kidney disease
- Dehydration
- Acidosis
- Alkalosis
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
