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Electrolyte Disorders services offered in throughout SE Michigan
Your electrolytes play a vital role in managing many bodily functions, including heart rate and fluid balance. Electrolyte disorders cause a disruption in the balance of these nutrients, which may affect health. Hypertension Nephrology Associates, PC, in Livonia, Michigan, specializes in diagnosing and treating electrolyte disorders. Call the Detroit metropolitan area office or book an appointment online today.
Electrolyte Disorders Q & A
What are electrolyte disorders?
Electrolyte disorders are conditions in which your electrolyte levels are too low (hypo) or too high (hyper). Your electrolytes include:
- Sodium (hyponatremia or hypernatremia)
- Potassium (hypokalemia or hyperkalemia)
- Calcium (hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia)
- Magnesium (hypomagnesemia or hypermagnesemia)
- Chloride (hypochloremia or hyperchloremia)
- Phosphate (hypophosphatemia or hyperphosphatemia)
These nutrients regulate fluid balance and chemical reactions. When your electrolytes are out of balance, it affects the function of your heart and muscles and may lead to a life-threatening situation.
You can develop an electrolyte disorder from nutritional deficiencies or problems involving your kidneys. With kidney disease, you may have problems that affect your body’s ability to manage potassium and phosphate levels.
What are the symptoms of electrolyte disorders?
Symptoms of electrolyte disorders vary and may depend on the type of disorder you have. With an electrolyte disorder, you may experience:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Muscle cramping or twitching
Electrolyte disorders that cause hyperkalemia (too much potassium) affect heart function, causing symptoms like palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath. If you have these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for care.
What can I expect during an electrolyte disorder evaluation?
You can expect a thorough exam when you visit Hypertension Nephrology Associates, PC, with concerns about an electrolyte disorder. Your provider reviews your symptoms, medical history, the types of medications you take, and family medical history.
They perform a physical exam and run lab work to check your electrolyte levels and confirm or rule out a problem involving your kidneys.
Your provider may also run specialized tests to better understand the cause of your fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
What are the treatments for electrolyte disorders?
Treatment for electrolyte disorders depends on the cause — your provider talks with you about your condition and what steps to take to rebalance your electrolytes.
Your treatment plan may include diet modifications, changes in fluid intake, or prescription medications to treat any underlying health issue causing your electrolyte disorder. Your provider may also recommend regular exercise and smoking cessation.
They schedule periodic follow-up appointments to monitor your electrolyte levels and adjust your plan as needed.
To find out more about treatment options for electrolyte disorders, call Hypertension Nephrology Associates, PC, or schedule an appointment online today.