Electrolyte & Acid-Base Disorders
The kidneys help keep sodium, potassium, bicarbonate and body fluid within safe ranges. Abnormal levels may result from kidney disease, medicines, dehydration, hormone disorders or other illnesses and can sometimes require urgent treatment.
Care built around the clinical picture.
High or low potassium evaluation
High or low sodium evaluation
Metabolic acidosis and bicarbonate disorders
Medication-related electrolyte problems
Fluid-balance assessment in kidney disease
A clear evaluation, then a practical plan.
Interpretation depends on the clinical context. Your doctor may review recent illness, fluid intake, medicines, blood pressure, kidney function and urine tests before deciding whether treatment or further testing is needed.
Reasons patients are often referred.
- Repeated potassium abnormalities
- Significant sodium abnormalities
- Unexplained low bicarbonate or acid-base problems
- Weakness, palpitations or confusion with abnormal electrolytes
- Electrolyte changes after medicine adjustments
Frequently asked questions.
Are electrolyte abnormalities always caused by kidney disease?
No. They can also result from medicines, gastrointestinal losses, hormones, fluid problems and other illnesses.
Can potassium problems be serious?
Yes. Marked potassium abnormalities can affect the heart and may require urgent medical assessment.
Should I change my diet after one abnormal potassium result?
Not without discussing the cause. Diet is only one possible factor and restrictions should be individualized.
Need to discuss a kidney concern?
Choose your preferred OPD location and request an appointment with Dr. Aakanksha Sharma.