AN OVERVIEW
About serum electrolytes test
Why is the serum electrolytes test done?
The serum electrolytes test is done if you experience the following symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Rapid heart rate
- Irregular heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Muscle weakness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Seizures
- Numbness and tingling
Do get tested immediately if any of these symptoms persist, since electrolyte balance can cause serious problems.
What does the serum electrolytes test measure?
The electrolytes test is used for measuring the amounts of sodium, potassium, and chloride present in the blood.
- Sodium – The majority of sodium in the body is present in the fluid outside of the cells. It helps in regulating water quantity in the body.
- Potassium- The majority of potassium in the body is present in the cells and helps in regulating muscle contraction.
- Chloride – Chloride moves in and out of the cells and helps in the maintenance of the balance of bodily fluids and acid-base.
Risks/side effects of serum electrolytes test
There are usually no side effects or risks associated with a serum electrolytes test. However, you might feel some pain for a few days in the area from where the blood will be taken using a needle.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
What is the serum electrolytes test?
Electrolytes are essential minerals present in our blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids.
These are electrically charged particles responsible for moving various nutrients in and out of the cells. Other functions of electrolytes include regulating our bodys water balance and acid/base (pH) level.
They also play a vital role in several biological processes, such as cardiac and skeletal muscle contraction and nerve conduction.
A number of tests are a part of the serum electrolyte test and help in examining the levels of sodium, potassium, and chloride in our body. We get these electrolytes from the food and drinks that we consume. The processes of reabsorption and urine elimination by the kidneys help in the maintenance of electrolyte balance.
When is the serum electrolytes test performed?
The serum electrolytes tests can be performed:
- As a part of regular health checkups.
- To track the efficacy of the treatment being given for the problem causing electrolyte imbalance.
- To check for renal disease.
- To analyze problems with the water supply or the body’s pH balance.
- To keep a track of those receiving diuretic therapy, intravenous fluids, or dialysis.
How to prepare for the serum electrolytes test?
No preparations are required for the serum electrolytes test. However, before the test, do inform your doctor about any medicines that you are taking.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the serum electrolytes test results
The serum electrolytes test is used for detecting electrolyte imbalance and acid-base abnormalities, especially in those who are hospitalized and are getting treated for various acute and chronic disorders.
The reference range for the tests used in the serum electrolytes test is mentioned in the table below:
| SERUM ELECTROLYTES TEST | NORMAL RANGE | UNITS |
| Sodium | 133-148 | mmol/L |
| Potassium | 3.8-5.6 | mmol/L |
| Chloride | 95-106 | mmol/L |
Low sodium levels (hyponatremia) are a result of excessive salt loss and can occur due to various reasons, such as diarrhea, vomiting, heavy sweating, heart failure, renal illness, etc.
On the other hand, high sodium levels (hypernatremia) are caused due to dehydration.
Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) occurs due to diarrhea and vomiting.
Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) occurs due to renal illness, Addison’s disease, and dehydration.
Low chloride levels (hypochloremia) are caused due to Cushings syndrome or congestive heart failure.
High chloride levels (hyperchloremia) are caused by dehydration and renal illness.
Serum Electrolytes Test In Chandigarh:
Electrolytes should be present in our body in sufficient amounts. Some of the food sources of electrolytes include milk, yogurt, soymilk, squash, cheese, green leafy vegetables, pickles, coconut water, celery, etc.
A serum electrolytes test is used to check for an electrolyte imbalance.
Read further to know more about the serum electrolytes test in Chandigarh, including its price and cost, preparation, side effects, understanding test results, etc.
and then