Some basic electrolyte functions

week 1

Sodium (Na+)

Major extracellular cation; regulates fluid balance, nerve/muscle function.

Hypernatremia

Causes dehydration and neurological symptoms

Hyponatremia

Causes cerebral edema, seizures

Potassium (K+)

Major intracellular cation; critical for cardiac and neuromuscular function.

(K+) Imbalances lead to:

Arrythmias

Muscle Weakness

Paralysis

Bicarbonate (CO2)

Reflects metabolic component of acid-base status.

Chloride (Cl-)

Maintains electroneutrality;
➢ Altered with sodium imbalances
and acid-base disturbances.

Calcium (Ca2+)

Vital for bone health, clotting, nerve conduction.

Hypocalcemia

Causes tetany/arrhythmias

Hypercalcemia

Causes weakness, stones, psychiatric disturbances

Magnesium (Mg2+)

Cofactor in enzymatic reactions

Low levels of (Mg2+)

Cause neuromuscular irritability (especially cardiac)

High levels of (Mg2+)

Cause CNS depression

Phosphorus

Works inversely with calcium; important for ATP, cellular energy, bone metabolism.