Sodium-Potassium balance in a human body is very important. Potassium has a strong relationship with sodium.

Some drugs are responsible for electrolyte disproportions. A study revealed that 20% of patients taking diuretics commonly prescribed for high blood pressure/heart related problems end up with reduced sodium and potassium levels.

An overall electrolyte imbalance can be manifested in several ways. The symptoms will depend on which electrolyte is out of balance, and whether that level is too high or too low. Generally there could be weakness, confusion or lethargy.

An altered level of magnesium, sodium, potassium, or calcium may produce one or more of the following symptoms: blood pressure changes, irregular heartbeats, nervous system disorders like seizures and convulsions, bone disorders etc. There could also be twitching, numbness, muscle spasm etc.

Hypercalcemia is a common disorder among cancer patients. It often results from the destruction of bones due to bone metastases (development of secondary malignant growths at a distance from a primary site of cancer). As there are other symptoms which may develop due to the result of the cancer itself or cancer treatment, it is sometimes difficult to identify hypercalcemia straight away.

Main causes for electrolyte imbalance are vomiting for prolonged period, severe dehydration, kidney diseases and congestive heart failure etc. Above and beyond, 'acid and alkaline imbalance' in the body can cause 'electrolyte crisis' as well.

E-mail: rubaiulmurshed@gmail.com