Question

1. Locate a current (medical or scientific) news or journal article based on one of the topics listed below:

• Distribution of body fluids and Electrolytes (Chapter 5, p. 114),
• Alterations in Potassium & other Electrolytes (Ch 5, P. 122)
• Note: As you read through the article, think about how it connects to Pathophysiology and why is it relevant.

1. Provide a write-up summarizing the article. Within your document, include how the information connects to Pathophysiology, and why it is relevant.

Answer 1

Alterations in potassium and other electrolytes:

Electrolytes are chemicals in the blood stream that regulates important functions of the body. The body’s nerve reaction and muscle function depends upon exchange of ions inside and outside the cells.

The normal potassium adult level is 3.5-5.3 mEq/L. Any deviation from the normal values of electrolytes can lead to electrolyte imbalance. The causes of imbalance are loss of body fluids from vomiting or diarrhoea, inadequate diet, lack of vitamins, malabsorption, hormonal disorders, kidney disease or complications of chemotherapy. Trauma is the main cause of hypovolemia. Dehydration is another cause which primarily entairs loss of plasma rather then whole blood. The consequences of these may lead to reduction in circulating blood volumes, lower venous return and some cases arterial hypertension. Myocardial failure can be resulted from increased oxygen demand in conjunction with reduced tissue perfusion resulting in anaerobic metabolism.

Cisplayin, an anti cancer drug can cause electrolyte imbalance. Other drugs include corticosteroids, diuretics etc.

The symptoms of electrolyte imbalance is based on the type of electrolyte level affected. Altered potassium, sodium, calcium levels may lead to muscle spasm, weakness, twitching or convulsions.