An electrolyte test might help you figure out if your body has an electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are minerals and salts found in the blood, such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. They can conduct electrical impulses throughout the body. The test is occasionally performed as part of a more extensive set of tests or a standard physical examination.
You can take electrolyte level evaluation if you’re taking certain medications, such as diuretics or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure. Moreover, an electrolyte panel (a collection of specialised blood tests) can be performed to determine whether there is an acid-base imbalance in addition to examining electrolyte levels in the blood (a normal arterial blood pH range is 7.35 to 7.45).
Furthermore, an electrolyte test can also be used to track the effectiveness of treatment for an organ imbalance that affects its function. The type of treatment for an electrolyte imbalance will determine which electrolyte is out of balance and how much. For example, if you have a sodium imbalance, you may limit your salt intake if sodium levels are too high or your fluid intake if sodium is too low.
