Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance

Electrolyte Deficiency – hypo Excess – hyper
Sodium (Na⁺) Fatigue, nausea, headache, confusion, seizures High blood pressure, water retention, edema
Potassium (K⁺) Muscle cramps, weakness, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) Heart disorders, paralysis, confusion
Calcium (Ca²⁺) Muscle cramps, numbness, osteoporosis Kidney stones, constipation, confusion
Magnesium (Mg²⁺) Cramps, irritability, sleep disorders Lethargy, slow pulse, nausea
Chlorine (Cl⁻) Disturbed pH balance, muscle weakness Fluid retention, hypertension
Phosphate Weakness, bone pain Spasms, itchy skin (rare)

🧠 How does an electrolyte deficiency feel in practice?

• Frequent urination + thirst → possible sodium/potassium deficiency
• Muscle cramps and twitching → often with magnesium, potassium or calcium deficiency
• Fatigue, drowsiness, confusion → possible electrolyte imbalance
• Cardiac arrhythmias → especially with potassium and magnesium imbalance

🔁 What can cause it:

• Diarrhea / vomiting – you lose sodium, potassium, chlorine
• Diuretics / laxatives – lead to loss of potassium and magnesium
• Intense sweating – loss of sodium, especially in athletes
• Malnutrition / hunger – low intake of all minerals
• Chronic diseases – such as kidney failure or diabetes

✅ What to do:

1. Drink enough water, especially during physical exertion or illness
2. Eat a balanced diet – include fruits, vegetables, dairy, nuts
3. Avoid excessively salty or highly processed foods
4. If you have symptoms – get your blood electrolytes tested

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