Question

Describe common disturbances in fluid and electrolyte balances.

Answer 1

Fluid and electrolyte balance go hand in hand.The homeostasis of the body can be maintained when both are in normal limits hence keeping the electrolyte in normal range.Euvolemia is the Normal status where as hypovolemia (increased fluid volume) and hypervolemia (decreased fluid volume) are fluid imbalances .Electrolyte controls the functions of heart, lungs, maintaining pH of the body,balancing the central nervous system and all the vital organ needs electrolyte to function normally.The common imbalances are sodium (hyponatremia or hypernatremia) potassium (hypokalemia or hyperkalemia ) calcium (hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia).

A mild fluid electrolyte imbalances can lead to headache ,fatigue .Moderate level can lead to disease conditions and severe imbalances can cease the function of vital organs and cause death.