ELECTROLYTE PROFILE (SODIUM, POTASSIUM, CHLORIDE)
(Flat ₹101 OFF - Sanovra Lab)
Report Time: Same Day (Cutoff 5:30 PM) | Sample: Blood (Serum) | Test Code: BC095
Electrolytes are essential minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge. Your body depends on these electrical charges to maintain the correct amount of water in your cells, regulate your heart rhythm, and allow your muscles and nerves to function properly.
The Big Three Explained
Each electrolyte plays a distinct and vital role in keeping you alive and moving:
| Electrolyte | Normal Range | Primary Function & Imbalance Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium (Na) | 135 – 145 mEq/L | Fluid Balance. Controls the amount of water in your body. High: Severe dehydration. Low: Drinking too much water or kidney issues (can cause brain swelling and confusion). |
| Potassium (K) | 3.5 – 5.0 mEq/L | Heart & Muscle Rhythm. Controls muscle contractions. Imbalance (High or Low): Extremely dangerous. Can cause fatal heart arrhythmias, severe muscle cramps, and extreme weakness. |
| Chloride (Cl) | 98 – 106 mEq/L | Acid-Base Balance. Works with sodium to maintain blood pressure and body acidity. Imbalance: Usually follows sodium; often altered by severe vomiting or diarrhea. |
Who Should Get This Test?
Your doctor will likely order an electrolyte panel if you belong to any of these categories:
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➤Taking "Water Pills" (Diuretics): Blood pressure medications frequently wash potassium and sodium out of the body through urine.
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➤Experiencing Unexplained Weakness: Chronic fatigue, severe muscle cramps, or twitching.
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➤Persistent Dehydration: After severe vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating.
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➤Kidney or Heart Disease: Kidneys are the primary organs that filter and balance these minerals.
Important: The "Hemolysis" Trap
This spills potassium into the serum, giving a False High Potassium reading. If your report indicates the sample was hemolyzed, you will need to give a fresh blood sample for an accurate result.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Generally, fasting is not required for a standard electrolyte profile. You can eat and drink normally, but try to avoid excessively salty foods or massive quantities of bananas right before the blood draw.
Sodium controls your blood volume and blood pressure. If your sodium drops too low, your blood pressure can drop with it, leading to dizziness, lethargy, and confusion.
Sports drinks can help with mild, temporary imbalances caused by heavy sweating (like after a workout). However, if your imbalance is caused by a medical condition or medication, sports drinks will not be enough, and you require medical evaluation.
Check Your Body's Spark Plugs
Don't ignore muscle cramps or unexplained fatigue. Get your Electrolyte Profile checked today at Sanovra Lab.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a qualified Physician.