Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that support regulating fluids and acids and base balance in the system. They also control muscle and nerve activity, heart rhythm, and other vital bodily functions. An electrolyte panel, also known as a serum electrolyte test, is a blood work that determines key electrolytes levels in the human body, which include:
electrolyte panel

Sodium assists to control the amount of fluid in the system, while it also aids nerves and muscles to function well.

Chloride also maintains the amount of fluid in the body. Furthermore, it helps regulate blood pressure and blood volume.

Potassium controls the heart and muscles to work effectively.

 Bicarbonate aids to maintain the acid and base balance in the body. And it also holds a vital role in transporting carbon dioxide via the bloodstream.

An abnormal level of any of these electrolytes is an indication of a serious health issue including kidney disease, hypertension, and irregularity in heart rhythm.

Also Read: Potassium: Functions, Food Sources, Deficiency And Toxicity

Purpose Of The Test?

An electrolyte panel blood work is a part of routine blood screening or a detailed metabolic panel. This test helps the physician to find out if the body has fluid or acid and base imbalance.

Electrolytes are generally measured together. But at times they are tested individually if the healthcare provider suspects any issue with a specific electrolyte.

Why Do I Need An Electrolyte Panel?

A person may need this test if they exhibit any symptoms indicating that their body’s electrolytes may be out of control. Also, if you’re taking any medication that affects electrolyte levels like diuretics or steroids, then you may need to get an electrolyte panel test. This is because your physician may want to evaluate you with regular electrolyte tests to know about the impact of medication and modify treatment if needed.

Symptoms that indicate electrolyte imbalance include:

  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Weakness
  • Irregular heartbeat 

What Happens During An Electrolyte Panel?

A technician will collect a blood sample from a vein in the arm, using a small needle, which is stored in a test tube. You may feel a mild sting when the needle goes in or out and takes less than 5 minutes.

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Is There Any Preparation Required For The Test?

You don’t need any specific preparations for an electrolyte panel test.

Are There Any Risks To The Test?

An electrolyte panel test is a non-invasive test that measures the levels of different types of electrolytes in the system.

While there is little or no risk of having a blood test, you may experience slight pain or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted. However, pain or bruising will settle away quickly.

Also Read: Know Why Electrolytes Are Important For You To Stay Healthy - Infographic

What Does The Results Mean?

Results include measurements of each electrolyte and abnormal electrolyte levels can be caused due to several medical conditions, including:

  • Dehydration
  • Kidney disease
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes

Acidosis is a condition where the acid level is high in the blood. This causes nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

Alkalosis is a condition where the base level is high in the blood. It can result in irritability, muscle twitching and tingling in the fingers and toes.

Several factors can affect electrolyte levels, which include consuming excess fluid or losing fluid due to vomiting or diarrhoea. Also, certain medications like antacids and hypertensive medicine may cause abnormal results.

Discuss with your healthcare provider about the results if you have any concerns.

What Does The Anion Gap Mean?

The anion gap is another test order along with the electrolyte panel. Some electrolytes have a positive electric charge while others have a negative charge. The anion gap is the measurement of the difference between negatively and positively charged electrolytes. If the anion gap is too high or too low, it may be a sign of a serious health issue.

Normal Electrolyte Values

The normal values for an electrolyte panel may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, where the test is done.

Sodium: 135-145 mEq/L

Potassium: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L

Chloride: 98-106 mEq/L

Bicarbonate: 22-28 mEq/L

Calcium: 8.5-10.5 mg/dL

Magnesium: 1.7-2.3 mEq/L

Phosphorus: 2.5-4.5 mg/dL