Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance

Dehydration, Fluid & Electrolyte Imbalance

This note covers dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, their causes, effects, and related information.

Electrolyte Imbalance

Common electrolytes involved in imbalances:

Calcium (Ca)
Magnesium (Mg)
Potassium (K)
Sodium (Na)

Dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of body fluids due to various factors:

Sweating
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Burns
Cancer
Organ failure
Fever
Medications and substance use disorders
Excessive bleeding
Hormonal imbalances

Dehydration & Electrolyte Imbalances Relationship

Dehydration (loss of body fluids) can lead to electrolyte imbalances. These imbalances involve disruptions in the levels of essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

Symptoms range from
(muscle cramps) to severe (heart arrhythmias).

Pathophysiology of Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance

When the body loses fluids, it also loses electrolytes.
Electrolytes are essential for organ function, including muscles and nerves.
Electrolyte concentrations increase, disrupting the body’s normal balance.

Key Electrolytes and Their Functions

Sodium (Na+):
- Controls fluid levels.
- Aids in muscle and nerve function.
Potassium (K+):
- Supports heart, nerve, and muscle function.
- Helps move nutrients and waste in and out of cells.
- Supports metabolism.
Calcium (Ca+):
- Helps blood vessels to contract and expand (vasoconstriction/vasodilation) to stabilize blood pressure.
- Supports communication between nerves.
Chloride (Cl-):
- Maintains healthy blood volume, blood pressure, and body fluids.
Magnesium (Mg+):
- Aids in nerve and muscle function.
- Promotes healthy bones and teeth.
Phosphate (PO4):
- Supports skeletal, muscle, and nerve function.
Bicarbonate (HCO3):
- Helps maintain acid-base balance in the blood.
- Moves CO_2 (a waste product) through the blood.