The human body has essential systems with each assigned to a specific task in maintaining the body alive and in good performance. The body of a human being requires various fluids and minerals for proper functioning. It is also an important aspect that these fluids and minerals are in the proper proportions at a given time. Through homeostasis, the body is able to strike a balance in the body cells. Fluids are important in the transportation nutrients into the body cells and also take waste products from the body. This article looks into fluid and electrolyte imbalances and their importance in the body. It also looks into the symptoms and treatment of a condition caused by the fluid or electrolyte imbalance. The proper levels of everything in the body is essential for proper functioning of the human body.
Fluid imbalance refers to a condition when the body has lost more water or fluids than the body can accommodate. Water presence in every part of the body is essential and the body is able to maintain the balance of water entering or leaving the body when one is healthy. The body can lose water through various ways such as sweating and urinating which may lead to dehydration. The body can also have a difficult disposing fluids leading to an overload known as edema. According to Nancy (2017), electrolyte imbalance on the other hand refers to a situation of abnormal concertation of electrolytes. The electrolytes are chemicals that when mixed with water can conduct electricity. Muscles and neurons rely on these electrolytes in their tasks in and out of the body cells. Some of the most important electrolytes in the body include calcium, sodium and potassium among others. The imbalance can occur during various body activities such as sweating, vomiting and diarrhea among other activities.
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The balance of fluid and electrolyte in the body is important in maintaining the proper functioning of the body. Electrolytes are a key element in the nervous system and have a role to play in muscle functioning (Mora-Rodriguez and Ortega, 2016). Fluid balance ensures the body is hydrated at all times. They are also important in maintaining the right internal pH levels. The fluids also play an important role in transportation of nutrients and body wastes.
An imbalance of fluid and electrolytes in the body can have adverse effects. The symptoms of these imbalances are dependent on the electrolyte that is deficient in the body. One of the conditions brought by these imbalances include hypocalcemia. This condition is caused by levels of calcium being lower than average in plasma. Other preexisting conditions are also contributors to this condition such as kidney failure among others. Some of the signs and symptoms of these condition include numbness of hands, lips or feet, seizures, muscle cramps, facial twitching, lightheadedness, slow heartbeat, confusion, depression, coarse hair, irritability, hallucinations and anxiety among others.
The treatment of this condition is usually dependent on the cause, the level of effects, the visibility of the symptoms and the rate of development of the condition. However, there is need for close attention when dealing with this condition. Calcium gluconate can be given to patients of acute hypocalcemia. Oral calcium and vitamin D is administered in cases of chronic hypocalcemia (Babey et al., 2018). There are other treatments that are tailored in the existing causing conditions of hypocalcemia and managing them helps manage this condition.
Fluid and electrolyte imbalances are common conditions that can be managed in a variety of ways. It is important to recognize the need for their balance for the proper functioning of the body. In case of an imbalance, there are various ways to try and regulate the resulting effects. Keeping all the essential fluids and electrolytes at a well-balanced level is crucial safeguarding the health of the human body.
References
Babey, M., Brandi, M. L., & Shoback, D. (2018). Conventional treatment of hypoparathyroidism. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics , 47(4), 889-900.
Mora-Rodriguez, R., & Ortega, J. F. (2016). 4 Cardiovascular Responses to Body Fluid Imbalance. Fluid Balance, Hydration, and Athletic Performance , 61.
Nancy, C. (2017). Everything you need to know about electrolytes. Medical News Today , retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153188.php
