Electrolytes (Na+, K+, Cl-)
The test determines the level of main blood electrolytes: sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), and chloride (Cl-). Electrolytes maintain water-salt balance, acid-base balance, and normal heart, muscle, and nervous system function.
Mechanism of abnormalities: electrolyte level disorders may be related to dehydration, kidney function disorder, endocrine diseases, diarrhea, vomiting, use of certain medications.
Recommended for:
- people with kidney, heart diseases, endocrine disorders
- with severe diarrhea or vomiting
- for monitoring therapy in chronic diseases
- with suspected water-electrolyte balance disorder
Biomaterial: Venous blood
- Submit fasting (8-12 hours without food)
- Avoid alcohol and excessively salty food for 24 hours
- Avoid intense physical exertion and stress
- Dehydration or excess body fluid
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Renal or adrenal diseases
- Endocrine disorders
- Severe infections or intoxications
- Monitoring therapy in kidney, heart, and metabolic diseases
Normal — Na+, K+, Cl- concentrations within reference values
Abnormality — may indicate water-salt or acid-base balance disorder
Which doctor to consult:
If electrolyte balance disorder is suspected or test abnormalities are detected, consultation with a general practitioner is recommended. The doctor evaluates results, clarifies clinical symptoms, and if needed prescribes treatment or additional tests.
Self-treatment is not recommended!
