Electrolytes, Serum
Test code: BCM0223
- Sample
- Blood
- Preparation
- No special preparation
- Report
- Within 3 Hours
- Processed
- Mon to Sun, by 06:00 PM
About this test
The Serum Electrolytes test measures sodium, potassium and chloride in your blood. These minerals control the body's water balance, nerve signals, muscle function and heart rhythm. The test is used when you are unwell with vomiting, diarrhoea or weakness, and to monitor kidney, heart and blood pressure treatment.
Preparation & sample
No special preparation required. Tell us about any medicines you take, especially water pills (diuretics) and blood pressure medicines.
What does this test measure?
- Sodium: controls the amount of water in and around your cells. It is important for the brain and nerves.
- Potassium: essential for muscles and a steady heartbeat
- Chloride: works with sodium to balance fluids and the body's acid-base level
When should you get this test?
- Vomiting, diarrhoea or dehydration, especially in children and older adults
- Weakness, muscle cramps, confusion or drowsiness
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- While taking water pills (diuretics), some blood pressure medicines or IV fluids
- Kidney disease, heart failure or uncontrolled diabetes
- As part of a hospital or pre-surgery check-up
Understanding your results
- Low sodium (hyponatraemia) is common in older adults and people on water pills. It can cause tiredness, confusion and falls.
- High sodium usually means the body has lost too much water.
- High or low potassium can affect the heart rhythm and may need prompt treatment.
- Chloride usually changes along with sodium and helps your doctor understand fluid and acid-base problems.
Electrolyte problems can develop quickly during illness, so your doctor may repeat this test to check your progress.
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