Electrolytes Abnormalities in Allen, TX
Your kidneys are essential organs with important jobs, such as removing toxins from your bloodstream and balancing fluids and electrolytes. When the kidneys are not functioning optimally, the balance of electrolytes and fluids can be shifted, leading to electrolyte abnormalities. This can affect the transmission of impulses of the nerves and muscles, with serious implications. Your compassionate kidney care team at Texas Advanced Renal Health will help you regain control of your electrolyte balance to enhance your overall health!
What Are Electrolyte Abnormalities?
Electrolytes are elements that are essential to life. They have profound effects, such as generating brain cell energy, nerve cell electricity, body water content, heart rhythm, and more! In fact, life as we know it would not exist without electrolytes. The five primary electrolytes the kidneys help keep in balance with other fluids in the system include potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
What Are the Causes of Electrolyte Abnormalities?
When the fluid compartments in your body have too many or too few electrolytes, this results in an electrolyte imbalance. The imbalance may be a telltale sign of different issues, such as kidney disease.
Other conditions that can affect your body’s ability to move and balance electrolytes include burns, cancer, heart and liver disease, dehydration (not enough water consumption), water intoxication (drinking too much water), eating disorders, and substance abuse. Certain medications can also affect electrolyte levels. These include antibiotics, chemotherapy, corticosteroids, diuretics, and laxatives.
Symptoms of Electrolyte Abnormalities
Signs and symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance depend on the severity and electrolyte type. A mild electrolyte imbalance may go unnoticed. When symptoms develop, you may experience the following:
- Irritability and confusion
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Exhaustion or fatigue
- Irregular heart rate
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Tingling in the limbs, fingers, and toes
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
Treatment Options for Electrolyte Abnormalities
The treatment protocol will depend on the specific electrolyte imbalance and its cause. Some imbalances will correct themselves without treatment. In other cases, we may recommend rehydration with electrolyte drinks or oral rehydration solutions.
If needed, we may recommend medical treatments for electrolyte imbalances, including the following:
- IV fluids such as sodium chloride
- IV medications to restore your electrolyte balance
- Medications and supplements to replenish low electrolyte levels
- Electrolytes replacement therapy for patients with renal failure on dialysis may involve hemodialysis, although occasionally administered through IV fluids
Electrolytes Abnormalities Treatment Near Me in Allen, TX
If you have any symptoms of electrolyte abnormalities, contact Texas Advanced Renal Health for a consultation. Our kidney care experts will evaluate your unique concerns and address any electrolyte imbalances. We will also follow up frequently to ensure you are on the right track. Regain your electrolyte balance and your health! Call 972-548-4833 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today!