Electrolytes + Imbalances

Sodium function

main regulator of fluid balance, raises BP

hypernatremia

thirst, fatigue, confusion, seizures, twitching/spasms - brain cell shrinkage

hyponatremia symptoms

headache, tendon reflexes diminished, reduced urination - brain swelling

Potassium function

main regulator of muscle, especially cardiac muscle

hyperkalemia

respiratory failure, arrhythmia, muscle cramps, decreased heart contractility, hyper/absent reflexes

hypokalemia

limp muscles, decreased deep tendon reflexes, leg cramps, increased urination, arrhythmia

Calcium function

bone health and neuromuscular function

hypercalcemia

moans GI pain, bones pain, stones, groans and lethargy, and neurologic overtones

hypocalcemia

chest pain, numb extremities, psychological, pruritus, tetany, spasms, stridor

Magnesium function

ICF and bone regulation, many cellular functions, kinda like sodium

hypermagnesemia

decreased reflexes, confusion, constipation, bladder paralysis

hypomagnesemia

hyperactive reflexes, tingling, confusion, flushing.