Electrolytes - Serum

Serum electrolytes test is a group of tests that measure the level of electrolytes in the body. Serum electrolytes like sodium, chloride, potassium and bicarbonate help maintain the body's metabolism. The sodium in the blood helps keep the body’s fluid balance and also helps in the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. Chloride content in the blood helps in maintaining the blood volume and pressure.  The potassium present in the blood helps in keeping your heart healthy and the bicarbonate helps maintain the body’s acid balance. 

A serum electrolytes test therefore becomes extremely necessary to keep a check on the balance of serum electrolytes in the body for its proper functioning. Apollo 24|7’s serum electrolytes test price is competitive and accurately measures the levels of minerals that are essential for proper functioning of nerves, muscles and cells.

Why should you get the serum electrolytes test done? 

• As a part of routine check up 
• To detect a balance of electrolyte levels 
• To detect acid-base imbalance 
• As part of evaluation of  kidney disease
   

Medically reviewed by Dr Shakti, General Physician/Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi

Frequently asked questions

How is the blood sample taken?

To take the blood sample, a tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is asked to make a fist. This helps in the buildup of blood filling the veins and it becomes easy to collect the blood. The skin is cleaned before inserting the needle in the vein in order to prevent bacteria from entering. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the arm and the blood sample is collected in the vacutainer.

What are the signs and symptoms of electrolyte imbalance?

The signs and symptoms of electrolyte imbalance include headache, confusion, nausea, vomiting, loss of energy, fatigue, drowsiness, muscle weakness, spasms or cramps, seizures, and coma.

What is hyponatremia and hypernatremia?

Low levels of sodium are known as hyponatremia and high levels of sodium are known as hypernatremia.

What is hypokalemia and hyperkalemia?

Low levels of potassium are known as hypokalemia and high levels of potassium are known as hyperkalemia.

How can an imbalance of electrolyte levels be prevented?

Imbalance of electrolyte levels can be prevented by drinking lot of water, and drinks containing electrolytes.

Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medicines?

Yes, please inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.

How can serum electrolytes imbalance be prevented?

Electrolytes imbalance can be prevented by drinking plenty of water and taking a balanced diet, which should include a good proportion of fruits, salads and vegetables.

Are potassium and chlorides serum electrolytes?

Yes, potassium (k+) and chloride (cl-) are serum electrolytes.

Can certain medicines lower the serum electrolytes level in the body?

Certain medications can lower serum electrolytes in the body. Hence, inform your doctor of any  medications you are taking.