Electrolyte imbalances are common findings in many diseases. The kidney is a principally responsible organ for the retention and excretion of electrolytes and fluids. But other mechanisms like hormonal interactions of antidiuretic hormone, aldosterone, and parathyroid hormone, and factors such as physiological stress play important roles in regulating fluid and electrolyte balance.
Electrolyte imbalances have a very broad range of signs and symptoms, from being completely asymptomatic to having fatal arrhythmias. The coexistence of one or more electrolyte imbalances in individuals with mixed medical conditions can create a complex clinical presentation. However, typically, each electrolyte imbalance presents with signs and symptoms that are more indicative of the specific imbalance.
Satyendra Dhar MD,
