Electrolyte Panel

Electrolytes are minerals that have an electrical charge when they are dissolved in water or body fluids. You have electrolytes in your blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids. They are important because they help: Balance the amount of water in your body; Balance your body's acid-base (pH) level; Move nutrients into your cells; Move waste out of your cells; Support your muscle and nerve function; Keep your heart rate and rhythm steady; Keep your blood pressure stable; Keep your bones and teeth healthy; Electrolytes are in your blood, urine (pee), tissues, and other body fluids.

An electrolyte panel is used to check for electrolyte, fluid, or pH imbalances. An electrolyte panel, also known as a serum electrolyte test, is a blood test that measures levels of the body's main electrolytes: Sodium, which helps control the amount of fluid in your body. It also helps your nerves and muscles work properly.; Chloride, which also helps control the amount of fluid in your body.

In addition, it helps maintain healthy blood volume and blood pressure.; Potassium, which helps your cells, heart, and muscles work properly.; Bicarbonate, which helps maintain your body's acid- base balance (pH). It also plays an important role in moving carbon dioxide through the bloodstream.; Calcium, which helps make and keep your bones and teeth strong.; Magnesium, which helps your muscles, nerves, and heart work properly. It also helps control blood pressure and blood glucose (blood sugar) levels.; Phosphate, which works together with the mineral calcium to build strong bones and teeth.; You get these electrolytes from the foods you eat and the fluids you drink.

The levels of electrolytes in your body can become too low or too high. This can happen when the amount of water in your body changes. The amount of water that you take in should equal the amount you lose.

If something upsets this balance, you may have too little water (dehydration) or too much water (overhydration). Abnormal levels of any of these electrolytes can be a sign of a serious health problem, including kidney disease, high blood pressure, and a life-threatening type of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).

Why this test is done

You may need this test if you have symptoms indicating that your body's electrolytes may be out of balance. These include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion and irritability
• Weakness
• Irregular or fast heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle weakness, cramps, or spasms
• Numbness or tingling in your arms, legs, fingers, and toes

How to prepare

No special preparations are needed for an electrolyte panel.

Sample type

Blood

Other names for this test

serum electrolyte test, electrolyte blood test, electrolyte lab test, lytes, sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl), carbon dioxide (CO2)