Fluid and Electrolytes

week 1

Hyponatremia

water enters cells often from excess fluids or medication causing cells to swell. when water shifts into sensitive brain cells.

Hyponatremia causes/ SX/TX

diuretics, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney disease, CHI, SIADH

nausea, headahce, confusion, muscle spams, weakness, fatigue, and seizures

fluid restriction, medication, adjustment

Hypernatremia

when blood has too much sodium, pulling water out of cells.

Hypernatremia causes/ sx/tx

inadequate water intake especially in elderly severe diarrhea, diabetes insipidus, excessive sweating, and hypertonic IV solutions.

extreme thirst (polydipsia), restlessness, dry mouth, agitation, muscle weakness, and in severe cases seizures or coma

rehydration with oral fluids or hypotonic IV fluids to restore fluid balance causing cerebral edema.

potassium

vital mineral and electorlyte that maintain normal cell function, fluid balance, and nerve signaling. it is crucial for heart health by regulating heartbeat, reducing blood pressure by offsetting sodium effects, and enabling muscle contractions. adequate intake helps prevent kidney stones and preserves bone density.

Hypokalemia

affects the heart by disrupting electrical stability, leading to dangerous arrhythmias such as premature ventricular contractions, atrial fibrillation, and ventricular tachycardia

Hypokalemia causes/sx/tx

diuretics; often a complication of medication used to treat heart failure and hypertension.

lightheadedness, fainting, or palpitations

restoring potassium levels (oral or IV)

Hyperkalemia

elevated blood potassium levels often resulting from kidney disease, medications, or metabolic issues.

Hyperkalemia causes/sx/tx

chronic kidney disease, acute kidney failure, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDS, Addison disease, excessive dietary intake, severe injuries (burns/crush injuries) and metabolic acidosis

Often asymptomatic in mild cases, but can include palpitations, shortness
of breath, chest pain, nausea, or muscle weakness/paralysis in severe cases

Emergency treatment: Intravenous calcium (to protect the heart),
insulin/glucose, and beta-agonists (to shift potassium into cells).