Electrolytes are substances that dissociate into ions in any solution and acquire the capability to conduct electricity. 

They are also present in human body as in nature and are very important substances in the body. They help in maintaining the balance of acid and base in the body and are responsible for contraction of the heart muscle, contraction of muscles of the body, functioning of nerves, and  functioning of all cells of the body. 

Thus to remain healthy one should have all electrolytes in proper balance. Sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and phosphate, are some of the important electrolytes present in the body.

Electrolyte imbalance is said to occur when there is deficiency or excess of one or more of these electrolytes in the body.

Many natural products contain vital electrolytes singularly or in combination. Sodium is present in table salt.  Natural sources of sodium include seaweed, celery, meats, poultry, dairy products and vegetables.

Potassium is present in most of the fruits and vegetables. Banana is a rich source of potassium. Dairy products are rich in calcium. Apart from them, calcium is also present in green leafy vegetables, legumes and nuts. Magnesium is available from whole grains, nuts and green vegetables.

Normally we lose electrolytes during sweating as while doing heavy physical work or travelling in hot weather. Conditions like diarrhea, vomiting or not eating for a long time causes electrolyte imbalance in the body. Even not taking a balanced diet for long time can lead to electrolyte imbalance.

Major injuries can also lead to electrolyte imbalance. Hormonal disturbances in the body due to diseases of the pituitary or adrenal glands result in electrolyte imbalance. Electrolyte disturbances are also caused by metabolic disturbances like very high blood glucose levels.

Hormonal disturbances in the body due to diseases of the pituitary or adrenal glands also lead to electrolyte imbalance.  Diuretic drugs like frusemide which cause loss of water and electrolytes from the body induce electrolyte imbalance over a period of time.

Kidneys play a vital role in regulating the electrolyte balance of the body, therefore kidney disorders lead to electrolyte imbalance in the body.

In mild cases of electrolyte imbalance, one may feel dryness of mouth and difficulty in speaking. There are muscular cramps in limbs and or muscle twitching. Sometimes athletes develop painful muscle cramps while running.  

This occurs due to sodium deficiency.  Fatigue, depression, loss of appetite and constipation are other features which can occur with electrolyte imbalance. Excess or deficiency of the acidic ions, results in increased respiratory rate, breathing trouble, sweating and asthenia.

With advanced electrolyte imbalance, there is flaccidity of all muscles of the body and the body becomes listless.  Apart from the sickness caused, electrolyte imbalance can be fatal if not corrected

Excess  of sodium can lead to hypertension, and cardiac problems.

Deficiency or excess of potassium can induce disturbances of the rhythm of the heart and even cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis of electrolyte imbalance is made by measurement of levels of electrolytes in the blood.

Treatment consists of giving the relevant electrolyte through perfusions. Minor deficiency can be treated by the tablets or syrups available. 

In cases of mild diarrhea, or in severe diarrhea as a first aid measure, one can form a solution at home by mixing water with salt, cooking soda and glucose to prevent electrolyte disturbances.

W.H.O. has given guidelines in this regard as to the quantities used. It is said that salt used should be enough to make it taste like tears.

It is better to prevent this condition. Intake of green vegetables, fresh fruits, milk products and nuts ensures that the body receives adequate amount of all necessary electrolytes and salts.

Junk food should be avoided as junk food also contains excess of salt and other chemicals as preservatives which can lead to electrolyte imbalance.

It is also important to drink sufficient amount of water, because a right quantity of water inside the body helps in keeping the electrolytes in equilibrium.

Thus with electrolytes in equilibrium, one can enjoy good health.
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