Electrolyte & Acid-Base Disorders

Electrolyte and acid-base disorders are crucial clinical entities characterized by imbalances in the body’s core minerals—sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride—and disturbances in blood pH, which can lead to either acidosis (pH <7.35) or alkalosis (pH >7.45). These disorders develop due to various causes such as renal or respiratory diseases, endocrine disorders, medications, and dehydration. Electrolyte imbalances affect cellular function, neuromuscular activity, and cardiovascular stability, while acid-base disorders alter respiration, cardiac output, and metabolic reactions.?

Acid-base imbalances are classified as respiratory or metabolic. Respiratory acidosis and alkalosis result from inadequate or excessive ventilation, while metabolic acidosis and alkalosis stem from abnormal bicarbonate levels due to renal or gastrointestinal dysfunction. The body uses compensatory mechanisms—such as kidney regulation and respiratory adjustments—to minimize pH changes. Severe imbalances can cause arrhythmias, muscle weakness, seizures, coma, and potentially life-threatening complications. Diagnosis involves serum electrolyte evaluation, arterial blood gases, and calculation of the anion gap, which aids in distinguishing between different types of metabolic disturbances.?