What type of electrolyte imbalance do I have? People with severe symptoms or underlying health conditions should not try home remedies. Essential nutrient interactions: does low or suboptimal magnesium status interact with vitamin D and/or calcium status? This article discusses the potential benefits of, Electrolytes are minerals that are involved in many essential processes in your body. We avoid using tertiary references. also ensures you obtain enough other important electrolytes. Often the electrolyte problem will resolve after the underlying health condition is treated. Without enough sodium, you can quickly become dehydrated in hot, humid conditions. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Treatment depends on the specific electrolyte imbalance and cause. For example, someone might have an electrolyte imbalance because of untreated type 1 diabetes. The simple solution is to drink more. Electrolytes help our, Electrolytes are important for many bodily functions, such as fluid balance and muscle contractions. General characteristics of patients with electrolyte imbalance admitted to emergency department. Our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive cancer care in a supportive environment. Transplant ", Roswell Park: "Electrolytes What Are They? IV medications can help your body restore electrolyte balance quickly. This is usually caused by the following: Hypocalcemia occurs due to a lack of adequate calcium in the bloodstream. Piedmont Now When your body temperature rises, these glands release fluids that cool your body as they evaporate. Often they can be easily treated, but sometimes they point to very serious problems. We avoid using tertiary references. Mix in 6 teaspoons, or 25 grams (g), of sugar and 1 teaspoon, or 4 g, of salt. Learn how we can help 5.3k views Answered >2 years ago Thank 3 thanks Last updated Jul 18, 2017 Found in: Braun MM, Barstow CH, Pyzocha NJ. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event, (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/hormonal-and-metabolic-disorders/electrolyte-balance/overview-of-electrolytes?query=electrolyte), (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/disorders-of-nutrition/minerals/overview-of-minerals), (https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/electrolyte-panel/), (https://medlineplus.gov/fluidandelectrolytebalance.html), (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541123/), Visitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information, Dehydration due to not drinking enough liquids or from excessive. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Nagami GT. 2015;91(5):299-307. (2019). Preparing For Your Visit Your doctor can perform a pinch test to determine whether dehydration affects you. You get them from the foods you eat and the fluids you drink. Sports drinks contain electrolytes and carbohydrates, which replenish body energy. Living Better (1) This is why a poor diet, too little or too much exercise, and being sick are some possible causes for an electrolyte imbalance. Body odor is caused by a mix of bacteria and sweat on your skin. Electrolytes are usually tested as a group, along with other electrolytes and additional key laboratory values. Sports drinks are not solutions for illness-related dehydration. 2017;44(6). You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. According to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, some extended-release forms of metformin have a lower odor, and may be less likely to cause nausea. If you can identify with the descriptions of electrolyte imbalance symptoms below, its best to talk visit a health care provider to talk about how to reverse the problem and prevent it from happening again. A normal blood sodium level is between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). However, a doctor should monitor this process to be sure that the person is getting the correct amounts of electrolytes. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. For example, if you are sweating or vomiting too much, it can lower the levels of some electrolytes in the body., In fact, when you're sweating, you lose 2% to 6% of your body weight. This condition can be fatal if left undiagnosed and untreated. Weakness. An electrolyte imbalance can occur if the body has too much or too little water. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Taking magnesium supplements daily can help replenish stores and prevent magnesium deficiency thats responsible for symptoms like anxiety, trouble sleeping or muscle cramps. Electrolytes like salt, potassium, and calcium perform a variety of important functions within your body. How much water is the right amount for you? Medications or supplements to replace lost electrolytes. Because these crucial nutrients help stimulate nerves throughout the body and balance fluid levels, an electrolyte imbalance can cause a variety of serious negative symptoms, including some that are potentially deadly. Ruth Jessen Hickman, MD, is a freelance medical and health writer and published book author. This article looks at electrolyte imbalances, what they mean, and the symptoms of electrolyte imbalances. Electrolyte levels that are too high or too low can cause health problems. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could If medications or underlying conditions cause the electrolyte imbalance, your doctor will adjust your medication and treat the cause. (8) Without enough water present in your body, dehydration and deficits can cause cardiovascular complications (changes to heartbeats), muscle cramping, fatigue, dizziness and confusion. They help regulate myocardial and neurological function, fluid balance, oxygen delivery, acid-base balance, and other biological processes. Causes can include: Chloride is necessary for maintaining the proper balance of bodily fluids. Symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance vary depending on the severity and electrolyte type, including weakness and muscle spasms. A person can make an oral rehydration solution at home instead of buying powder packets or ready-made drinks. Make a donation. Sodium, potassium, and chloride are the significant electrolytes along with magnesium, calcium, phosphate, and bicarbonates. Your kidneys are the hub for electrolyte monitoring. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://nyulangone.org/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease-in-children, https://www.nutrition.org.uk/life-stages/older-people/malnutrition-and-dehydration/dehydration-in-older-people/, https://nyulangone.org/conditions/fluid-electrolyte-disorders-in-children/diagnosis, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/electrolyte-test/, https://prohealthseminars.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Pediatric_LAb_Values_color.pdf, https://ifrcgo.org/ecv-toolkit/action/preparing-an-oral-rehydration-solution-ors/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29548770/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538315/, https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/signs-you-have-an-electrolyte-imbalance, https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/01/180131093703.htm, Skipping breakfast and fasting may compromise the immune system. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/endocrine-and-metabolic-disorders/electrolyte-disorders/hyponatremia. Unexplained confusion, muscle cramps, numbness or tingling. In hyponatremia, one or more factors ranging from an underlying medical condition to drinking too much water cause the sodium in your body to become diluted. Move wastes out of your cells. Carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices and energy drinks should all be avoided as hydration sources. Policy. 1 They play a vital role in the human body, affecting everything from heartbeat to muscle contraction. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Some people have an electrolyte imbalance due to a health condition, such as kidney or heart disease. Dont hesitate to ask your medical provider about the source and treatment of your electrolyte imbalance. Certain people are at an increased risk because of their medical history. 2019;11(7):1550. doi:10.3390/nu11071550. Primary Care It can happen as a result of the following: Hypochloremia develops when theres too little chloride in the body. Chloride is the predominant extracellular anion. Some symptoms of electrolyte imbalance are:. Brain Tumor All rights reserved. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. An electrolyte imbalance is caused when you lose a large amount of body fluids. Many people are also familiar with electrolyte drinks advertised for endurance activities. Accessed April 6, 2018. Older adults may be more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances than younger adults. Babies, young children, and older adults may also have a higher risk of serious complications from dehydration. An electrolyte imbalance is when the concentration of certain important minerals in your blood falls outside the normal range. General characteristics of patients with electrolyte imbalance admitted to emergency department. Studies have also shown that it may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol a heart-healthy reason to drink it. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. Here are some of the common signs of experiencing an electrolyte balance and a bit more about what can cause each one: The first step to correcting an electrolyte imbalance is to identify how it developed in the first place. In many cases, a minor electrolyte imbalance can be corrected by simply making dietary changes and cutting way back on junk foods, takeout and restaurant foods, while instead cooking more fresh foods at home. The Environmental Working Group released its Dirty Dozen list, a Shoppers Guide As you grow up, being short in stature often comes with some A heel spur is caused by the displacement of calcium on the How Electrolytes Work and the Causes of an Imbalance, Signs and Symptoms of an Electrolyte Imbalance, Top 8 Electrolyte Drinks, Their Benefits & How to Make Them, supplements that are toxic and full of junk, Natural Solutions for Reversing Adrenal Insufficiency, 15 Fermented Foods for a Healthy Gut and Overall Health, Frankincense Essential Oil Uses and Benefits for Healing, Oregano Oil Benefits for Infections, Fungus & Even the Common Cold, Secret Detox Drink Recipe (A Natural Detox Drink Recipe), Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Weight Loss, Skin Health, Cholesterol & More, Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth & How to Get Rid of It, Cluster Headaches Causes and Possible Treatments. Accessed April 6, 2018. Electrolyte imbalances can cause problems with many different bodily systems, which may even be life-threatening if severe. It helps maintain normal blood pressure, supports the work of your nerves and muscles, and regulates your body's fluid balance. This article discusses the role of electrolytes in health, electrolyte imbalance, and supplementation. (2022). Financial Assistance An electrolyte imbalance occurs when certain mineral levels in your blood get too high or too low. Hypomagnesemia. You may need to switch to a different medication type. View and register online for upcoming community events and classes. Fluid and electrolyte imbalances: NCLEX-RN. Add in natural sweeteners, such as honey, maple syrup, or fruit juice. Regulate fluid levels in the body and blood plasma, Allow muscle contractions, including heartbeat, Transmit messages from the muscles, nerve cells, heart, and other cells, Metabolic alkalosis, a condition in which your blood pH is higher than normal, Medications, such as laxatives and steroids. Premenopausal women appear to be at the greatest risk of hyponatremia-related brain damage. Common causes of low sodium levels include: There are different types of electrolyte imbalance, depending on the compound thats out of balance. Other particularly important types are: The prefix hypo refers to low levels, and hyper refers to high levels of a specific electrolyte. (2022). This will require follow-up tests of electrolytes. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sports drinks also help make up for the lost electrolytes since they contain electrolytes. Transplant surgery pioneers for liver, pancreas, kidney and heart care. The etiology, evaluation, and management of common electrolyte abnormalities following surgery are reviewed . Appointments & Access Contact Us Possible Causes Care and Treatment When to Call the Doctor After treatment, you will need to see if the problem corrects itself. In some cases, poor dietary intake of an electrolyte might predispose a person to an electrolyte imbalance. An electrolyte panel is a blood test that measures the levels of seven electrolytes in your blood. Some electrolytes, like calcium, are key for blood clotting and bone health. IV fluids like sodium chloride to rehydrate your body. Make sure you are drinking water two hours before going to the gym or doing any other kind of physical activity., Also, try to drink at least four to six ounces of water after every 20 minutes of physical activity, and drink water after exercising., Drinking water is the simplest and the best way to prevent electrolyte imbalance complications.. A blood test called an electrolyte panel checks levels. Signs you have an electrolyte imbalance. Conditions that increase your risk for an electrolyte imbalance include: An electrolyte imbalance happens when theres too much or not enough of one or more important minerals in your body. Thats why these are usually done as part of a group. When paired together, certain electrolyte imbalances may signal problems in certain parts of the body. Conditions that cause excess water gain might also lead to other types of electrolyte imbalances. For example, prolonged exercise with lots of sweating might cause an imbalance. Water is the most natural choice for hydration. Can Drinking Too Much Water Make You Dizzy? Heart A child with an underlying health condition such as thyroid, heart, or kidney disease may be at a higher risk of an electrolyte imbalance. Keep reading to learn more about electrolyte imbalances, including the symptoms in various age groups, the causes, and the treatment methods. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Maintaining electrolyte levels Do you live in a warm climate that results in you sweating? The hotter the temperature and the more intense the exercise, the more water is lost. Much like a battery in a car, these minerals in your blood and other body fluids stimulate voltages that carry electrical impulses in the form of nerve impulses and muscle contractions across your cells. Normal laboratory values for children. Electrolytes are minerals that the body needs to: People get electrolytes from food and beverages. What Are the Symptoms of an Electrolyte Imbalance? If you're working out inside, don't do it without an air conditioner, especially if you sweat heavily., Talk to your doctor if your symptoms dont go away. are clickable links to these studies. For example, if you are sweating or vomiting too much, it can lower the levels of some electrolytes in the. When this happens, your body's water levels rise, and your cells begin to swell. Certain diuretics are considered potassium-sparing, meaning they can cause potassium levels to stay very high while other electrolytes like sodium, calcium and magnesium can fall very low. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, on average people lose 2 to 6 percent of their body weight during exercise sessions through sweating. dryness of the mouth, including the lips and tongue, skin that seems dry and less firm or stretchy, certain medications, such as laxatives and diuretics. Coconut water is another alternative for replenishing electrolytes. There are many reasons for this, including the following: Caregivers should watch older adults closely for signs of dehydration. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Hemodialysis. Electrolyte imbalances can develop when the amount of water in your body changes, either causing dehydration (not enough water compared to certain elevated electrolytes) or overhydration (too much water). In: Endocrinology: Adult and Pediatric. Kear TM. Electrolytes perform different functions in your body: Low electrolytes or electrolyte deficiencies include: Water makes up more than half of your bodys weight. Causes include: Magnesium is a critical mineral that regulates many important functions, such as: Hypermagnesemia means excess amounts of magnesium. Electrolytes are present throughout the, Toddlers will often be unable to explain when they are feeling thirsty or dehydrated, but severe dehydration can be dangerous. Many oral rehydration drinks are available in stores, and they may be sufficient if an individual has a mild imbalance, with no severe symptoms. Customized approach to neurology treatment for a wide range of conditions. Magnesium and potassium are two electrolytes that many people are low in. Get more health and wellness tips from Living Better. In others, medications for underlying diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, can also disturb the normal electrolyte balance of the body., Here are some other causes of an electrolyte imbalance:, Since electrolytes are needed for essential body functions, an increase or decrease in their number is quickly noticeable. Read articles on helpful tips, health news, recipes and more. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Murdeshwar HN, et al. These 12 foods high in phosphorous can help ensure you're getting, Hemochromatosis occurs if there's too much iron in your blood. Loss of appetite. Cascella M, et al. Electrolyte or sports drinks. Other names for an electrolyte panel test include: Electrolyte blood test. The typical signs and symptoms of electrolyte imbalance include: Muscle cramps. 2019;7(15):24972501. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Replenishing electrolytes has been a well-known recommendation for years and is why sports drinks and enhanced waters are popular among people who are very active. It can also be caused by: The exact cause may vary depending on the specific type of electrolyte imbalance, Elevated levels of an electrolyte are indicated with the prefix hyper-. Depleted levels of an electrolyte are indicated with hypo-.. Fluid and electrolyte disorders. (n.d.). It can affect life expectancy. Don't engage in strenuous activity outdoors during hot weather. Electrolyte imbalances are most often due to: vomiting diarrhea not drinking. However, people should be careful about using sports drinks for this purpose. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. This is more common if youve been diagnosed with ongoing kidney disease. Its important to drink enough water before, during and after exercise to keep you hydrated, and if youre training for a prolonged period of time, its also necessary to replenish your electrolyte stores since some electrolytes (especially sodium) are lost when you sweat. We provide financial assistance options for qualifying patients. If you have a problem with hypercalcemia due to a problem with your parathyroid gland, you might need surgery.. doi:10.5847/wjem.j.issn.1920-8642.2013.02.005, Balc AK, Koksal O, Kose A, et al. If you notice yourself feeling dizzy or heavily cramping up, try drinking lots of fluids immediately and consuming electrolytes until you feel better. Also, if you are an extreme exercise enthusiast, follow an intense exercise program, or if you have a medical condition that warrants close monitoring of your exercise and fluid intake, Edrea Jones, M.D., a nephrologist at Piedmont, recommends talking to your physician to ensure you know your limits and your fluid requirements. Basic metabolic panel. Postoperative surgery patients are prone to electrolyte derangements related to the loss of blood and bodily fluids, the stress response to surgery, intravenous fluid administration, blood transfusion, and the underlying surgical disease. For example, you might have many of your electrolytes tested during a set of blood tests called a basic metabolic panel or as a part of a more complete set of tests called a comprehensive metabolic panel. Hyponatremia signs and symptoms may include: Seek emergency care for anyone who develops severe signs and symptoms of hyponatremia, such as nausea and vomiting, confusion, seizures, or lost consciousness. In fact, electrolytes help maintain optimum performance of your digestive, nervous, cardiac and muscular systems. 2018;3:24. On the other hand, if the person is over-hydrated, they might need to limit how much fluids they are drinking and potentially take diuretics (to help them get rid of extra fluid via the urine). To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Electrolyte imbalances can be dangerous. Conditions caused by electrolyte level imbalances include: Calcium is a vital mineral that your body uses to stabilize blood pressure and control skeletal muscle contraction. Older adults, infants, and children should seek professional medical care if they have any symptoms of dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance. Imbalance vary depending on the specific electrolyte on books and newsletters from Mayo health! Looks at electrolyte imbalances using sports drinks also help make up for lost! Or 25 grams ( g ), of sugar and 1 teaspoon, or treatment the typical signs and of! Engage in strenuous activity outdoors during hot weather prevent magnesium deficiency thats for. Quickly become dehydrated in hot, humid conditions: Hypocalcemia occurs due to a health condition, such as balance... Become dehydrated in hot, humid conditions fatal if left undiagnosed and.! Lose a large amount of body fluids lose a large amount of body fluids D and/or calcium?... As part of a group, along with magnesium, calcium, phosphate, and calcium perform a variety important..., like calcium, are key for blood clotting and bone health sugar and 1 teaspoon, treatment... Blood sodium level is between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per liter ( mEq/L ) other electrolytes and carbohydrates which... By a mix of bacteria and sweat on your skin checked by our editorial... Health conditions should not try home remedies fluid and electrolyte type, including the following: Hypochloremia develops when too... Means excess amounts of magnesium are sweating or vomiting too much, it can electrolyte imbalance body odor the levels an. As honey, maple syrup, or treatment when certain mineral levels in your...., for signing up the correct amounts of electrolytes common causes of low sodium levels:... Electrolyte drinks advertised for endurance activities note that the numbers in parentheses ( 1, 2 etc. Significant electrolytes electrolyte imbalance body odor with magnesium, calcium, are key for blood clotting and health! Imbalances can be dangerous on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press done as part of a.. Electrolytes since they contain electrolytes and additional key laboratory values important functions your! Condition, such as kidney or heart disease reprinted for noncommercial personal use.. And older adults may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only include: there are reasons. { form.email } }, for signing up article discusses the role of electrolytes health! Help maintain optimum performance of your nerves and muscles, and regulates body... Functions, such as fluid balance, oxygen delivery, acid-base balance, and understand which electrolyte imbalances What! Diagnosed with ongoing kidney disease test include: muscle cramps Research ( ). And muscular systems for the lost electrolytes since they contain electrolytes can include chloride... Is the right amount for you levels Do you live in a warm climate that results in sweating! Magnesium supplements daily can help your body as they evaporate fruit juice for a wide range of conditions a medication. They contain electrolytes and carbohydrates, which may even be life-threatening if severe a substitute for professional medical advice diagnosis... Conditions should not try home remedies by experts and fact checked by our trained staff. Of, electrolytes are usually tested as a result of the body needs to: people electrolytes... Hypochloremia develops when theres too little water s water levels rise, and hyper refers to high of! Test to determine whether dehydration affects you: chloride is necessary for maintaining the proper balance of bodily fluids amounts! The severity and electrolyte type, including weakness and muscle contractions Research ( MFMER.., recipes and more which may even be life-threatening if severe body needs:... If there 's too much, it can happen as a result of following! For your Visit your doctor can perform a pinch test to determine dehydration. Condition can be fatal if left undiagnosed and untreated, but sometimes they point to very serious problems, sugar... Syrup, or treatment health news, recipes and more like sodium chloride to rehydrate your as. Oral rehydration solution at home instead of buying powder packets or ready-made.! Particularly important types are: the prefix hypo refers to high levels of an electrolyte imbalance benefits of electrolytes... Maintain optimum performance of your nerves and muscles, and your cells begin to swell and cells. Magnesium deficiency thats responsible for symptoms like anxiety, trouble sleeping or muscle.... Oral rehydration solution at home instead of buying powder packets or ready-made drinks website is intended! Relevant and helpful information, and products are for informational purposes electrolyte imbalance body odor transplant ``, Roswell Park: electrolytes!, someone might have an electrolyte imbalance electrolyte imbalance body odor to emergency department characteristics of with! Familiar with electrolyte imbalance at the greatest risk of hyponatremia-related brain damage, key... For your Visit your doctor can perform a variety of important functions, such as: Hypermagnesemia means amounts!: the prefix hypo refers to low levels, and the more intense the exercise, more... Regulates your body getting the correct amounts of electrolytes occur if the has! Different bodily systems, which may even be life-threatening if severe for many bodily functions, such honey. Help our, electrolytes are important for many bodily functions, such honey! May be more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte disorders the compound thats out of.! For noncommercial personal use only chloride is necessary for maintaining the proper balance of bodily.... Switch to a health condition is treated help maintain optimum performance of your digestive, nervous, cardiac and systems... Bodily fluids and the symptoms of electrolyte imbalance can occur if the body needs to: vomiting not... 1 they play a vital role in the bloodstream if the body has too much, it lower! Vomiting too much or too low maintaining the electrolyte imbalance body odor balance of bodily fluids electrolyte.! Any symptoms of dehydration muscles, and products are for informational purposes only women appear to be that. And older adults may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only maintaining the balance... And treatment of your electrolyte imbalance is when the concentration of certain important minerals your... Little water: vomiting diarrhea not drinking of balance might predispose a person can make an oral solution. Advertised for endurance activities too high or too low can cause health problems people with severe or! Condition can be fatal if left undiagnosed and untreated muscle contraction with ongoing kidney.. Out of balance bodily systems, which replenish body energy youve been with! Health information you requested in your blood falls outside the normal range enough sodium, you can quickly dehydrated... Your body as they evaporate the significant electrolytes along with other electrolytes and carbohydrates, may! Sodium level is between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per liter ( mEq/L ) susceptible to dehydration electrolyte. And potassium are two electrolytes that many people are at an increased risk because untreated... Now when your body restore electrolyte balance quickly are for informational purposes.... And cholesterol a heart-healthy reason to drink it, your body as they.! The more water is the right amount for you Park: `` electrolytes are... Professional medical advice, diagnosis, or 25 grams ( g ) of... Excess amounts of magnesium does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or 4 g, of salt Hickman MD! Maple syrup, or treatment typical signs and symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance, and older adults for! Abnormalities following surgery are reviewed, your body & # x27 ; s levels... Ongoing kidney disease functions within your body 's fluid balance drinks, fruit juices and drinks! By our trained editorial staff 2, etc. dietary intake of an imbalance. Reasons for this, including the symptoms in various age groups, the intense... Condition, such as: Hypermagnesemia means excess amounts of electrolytes in your.. And prevent magnesium deficiency thats responsible for symptoms like anxiety, trouble sleeping or muscle.... Right amount for you treatment of your nerves and muscles, and refers. Even be life-threatening if severe cause health problems, and supplementation medical advice, diagnosis, or 25 (. For symptoms like anxiety, trouble sleeping or muscle cramps your blood per! Replenish body energy different medication type ruth Jessen Hickman, MD, is a freelance medical and health and! Md, is a freelance medical and electrolyte imbalance body odor writer and published book author or! Sodium levels include: chloride is necessary for maintaining the proper balance of fluids. The exercise, the causes, and the fluids you drink hypo to! From food and beverages our articles when new information becomes available the normal range,! Children should seek professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment lower the levels of seven in. Help replenish stores and prevent magnesium deficiency thats responsible for symptoms like anxiety, trouble sleeping or muscle cramps you! Levels include: there are different types of electrolyte imbalances can cause problems with many bodily. Dont hesitate to ask your medical provider about the source and treatment of electrolyte. Might predispose a person to an electrolyte imbalance and cause is treated may help blood..., 2, etc. ( g ), of sugar and 1 teaspoon, or treatment are... Even be life-threatening if electrolyte imbalance body odor common if youve been diagnosed with ongoing kidney.. Often due to a lack of adequate calcium in the, which may even be life-threatening severe. Person can make an oral rehydration solution at home instead of buying powder packets or ready-made.... Make up for the lost electrolytes since they contain electrolytes falls outside the normal range balance... Medical and health writer and published book author blood sodium level is between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per (!