How to Identify the Risks Factors of Developing an Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolytes are elements in the body that aid in the functioning of the heart, nerves and muscles. They also help the body absorb fluids found in the foods we eat and drink. An imbalance of electrolytes can lead to a range of side effects, from dry mouth and nausea to abdominal cramping, increased heart beat, temporary paralysis and coma. If you want your body to function at its highest possible level, it's important to identify the risk factors for developing an electrolyte imbalance.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask your doctor about the health risks of endurance exercise such as training for a marathon. Many people experience potassium and sodium deficiencies hours after they finish long workouts. Typical symptoms include fatigue, headaches and even dizzy spells.

• 2

  Weigh yourself if you get sick and experience vomiting or diarrhea. If you're losing weight, you're at an increased risk for developing mild to severe electrolyte imbalances. Prolonged illness may be a sign of a greater illness or disease and should be addressed immediately.

• 3

  Speak to a nutritionist to identify risks involved in fasting, laxative abuse and extreme dieting. When you go without vital nutrients, your body is unable to rebuild muscle and replenish lost fluids. If you go long enough without replacing essential electrolytes, you may experience seizures, muscle weakness, extreme headaches, fainting spells and confusion.

• 4

  Consult with an elder care physician to learn more about electrolyte imbalance risk factors for people over the age of 65. Find out if an elder parent is restricting his or her fluid intake due to factors like incontinence, prostate disease or neglected health care facilities. Many elder patients are also at risk because their organs are not as efficient at absorbing electrolytes as they used to be. Dietary supplements and electrolyte drinks may help to stabilize these patients.

• 5

  Stay on top of your electrolyte consumption if you suffer from kidney disease. People who suffer from renal failure are high-risk candidates for electrolyte imbalance--the organs simply cannot absorb and process fluids into the bloodstream. Patients with kidney problems may experience severe symptoms and even death due to electrolyte imbalances. Patients need to get tested to identify their risks early and prepare treatment plans.

• 6

  Follow the weather report. During hot weather, many people are at risk of developing electrolyte deficiencies due to excessive sweating. If you go too long without replacing electrolytes, you risk heat exhaustion, confusion and even death.