How Does an Electrolyte Imbalance Affect My Kidneys?
The kidneys are essential organs that play a critical role in removing toxins from the bloodstream and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. When the kidneys don’t function like they should, electrolyte and fluid balances can shift, leading to electrolyte abnormalities or imbalances, impacting your overall health. Our dedicated kidney care team at Texas Advanced Renal Health will work with you to regain your electrolyte balance to enhance your health and quality of life.
What Are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are elements essential to life. They include minerals with an electric charge, like potassium, calcium, sodium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Electrolytes play a critical role in transmitting nerve and muscle impulses throughout the body and maintaining the balance between fluids inside and outside your cells. They also help move nutrients into your cells and waste out of them, help the major organs like the brain and heart function, and so much more.
What Are Signs of Electrolyte Imbalances?
Signs of an electrolyte imbalance may depend on the type of electrolyte and the severity of the imbalance. Mild imbalances often go unnoticed. However, too much or too little of an essential electrolyte may leave you with one or more of the following symptoms:
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Low or high blood pressure
- Irritability and confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal cramping
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Muscle weakness or cramping
- Tingling in the fingers or toes
- Imbalance and frequent falls
- Seizures and coma
- Bone demineralization
What Are the Impacts of Prolonged Electrolyte Imbalances?
Electrolyte imbalances do not only have short-term symptoms or consequences. They can cause the bones to weaken, affect your eyes, and elevate the risk of heart-related complications, such as a heart attack. Electrolyte imbalances can cause acute kidney failure and, if prolonged, can result in chronic kidney failure!
Maintaining Your Electrolyte Balance
Maintaining your electrolyte balance starts with consuming a well-balanced, nutritious diet to provide your body with adequate levels of electrolytes. It’s also important to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
For severe electrolyte imbalances, your trusted team at Texas Advanced Renal Health may recommend treatments depending on the specific electrolyte imbalance and its causes. Treatments may include the following:
- Electrolyte drinks or oral rehydration solutions
- IV fluids or medications to restore your electrolyte balance
- Supplements to replenish low electrolyte levels
- Electrolytes replacement therapy through hemodialysis for patients in renal failure
Compassionate Kidney Care Near Me in McKinney, Texas
Contact your dedicated kidney care team at Texas Advanced Renal Health to learn more about maintaining a healthy electrolyte balance. Dr. Sadeddin and his exceptional team will evaluate your unique needs and work with you to keep your kidneys functioning their best. Call 972-548-4833 to schedule your appointment today!