The ions in blood are a fundamental element in regulating the body’s functions. They are the result of the separation of electrolytes with water and can be positive or negative.
Blood ions, what they are
They are particles with an electric charge in the bloodstream. The electrolytes in blood are made up of an atom that is not neutral, meaning they have a positive or negative charge and, depending on this charge, they produce symptoms and effects on the human body.
When the atom loses or gains electrons, it changes from one state to another. In this case, they are called positive or negative due to their electric charge.
But what is important are the charge values or normal levels of ions in blood, as from these electrolyte imbalances can occur due to ionization, the loss, or gain of electrons.
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Symptoms
Generally, signs and evidence appear when the electrolyte imbalance is large. When it is small, we don’t usually notice it, as there is no strong symptomatic presentation.
Many electrolyte imbalances go unnoticed, and only when discomfort occurs can it be detected through a blood test. However, electrolyte imbalance or blood ions have symptoms:
- Dizziness.
- Nausea.
- Tremors.
- Muscle cramps.
- Physical fatigue.
- Lowered immune defenses.
- Dry skin.
- Reduced salivation.
- Bad breath.
- Change in urine color, it usually turns dark.
- Low sweat production.
- Little desire to urinate.
- Joint pain.
- Mental confusion.
The most common symptoms of blood ions or, more precisely, of electrolyte imbalance are feeling dizzy, tremors, or muscle cramps. As the formation of ions progresses and there is no intake of electrolytes, it is possible that the symptoms worsen, leading to greater discomfort.
In many cases, this is caused by dehydration, whether from exercising and sweating a lot or from not drinking water and liquids with minerals.
Knowing what electrolytes are and their function is simple but at the same time complex due to the fact that they interact throughout the body. Their main role is to enable nervous reactions in the human body and maintain muscle function through the exchange of electrolytes in the cells.
Normal values
But in order to prevent a deficiency or imbalance, let’s look at the normal values of blood ions:
| Normal blood ion values in adults | |
| Potassium: | 3.5-5.3 mEq/L |
| Magnesium: | 1.5-2.5 mEq/L |
| Calcium: | 4.5-5.5 mEq/L |
| Chloride: | 97-107 mEq/L |
| Sodium: | 136-145 mEq/L |
Keep in mind that these ion values are for reference. The WHO has provided an average, but there may be differences between individuals and the results provided by different laboratories.
Electrolyte imbalances: Are they important?
Any anomaly in the functioning and levels of elements in the body should be taken seriously. Electrolyte imbalances can cause health problems if not corrected.
The loss of fluids from excessive sweating, eating few foods with vitamins and minerals, as well as certain disorders that prevent electrolyte absorption, can be the causes of electrolyte imbalances. There is also the possibility that a medication could cause malabsorption.
Solutions for electrolytes and blood ions
In many cases, it is necessary to drink electrolyte solutions or include a supplement with minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, and sodium in the diet. These are the main elements regulating body function.
The most common electrolyte treatments or solutions are:
- Intravenous fluid.
- Changing diet or eating habits.
- Reducing water intake in some cases (always under medical advice).
- Increasing liquid intake.
- Eating more fruits and vegetables.
- Buying a supplement with magnesium, potassium, etc.
How can you know the level of ions in your blood?
Although it’s simple, you must go to a clinic or public health services for the doctor to perform a blood and urine test.
The test results will show whether the blood ion or electrolyte levels are low. Additionally, an electrocardiogram may also be performed to check if the heart is functioning properly, as potassium, magnesium, or sodium deficiencies can lead to an irregular heart rate.
Some people may need an ultrasound, as electrolyte imbalances or disturbances can also be caused by poor kidney function or renal disease.
