Older adults are susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities, causes of which are multifactorial, ranging from physical disability restricting access to adequate fluid intake to iatrogenic causes including polypharmacy and the unmonitored use of diuretics and other drugs.

What causes low electrolytes in the elderly?

Studies have found that older adults may be more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances than younger adults. There are many reasons for this, including: The kidneys may lose some of their function with age. Older adults may take multiple medications, such as diuretics, that can change electrolyte levels.

What diseases cause electrolyte imbalance?

Conditions that increase your risk for an electrolyte disorder include:

• alcohol use disorder.
• cirrhosis.
• congestive heart failure.
• kidney disease.
• eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia.
• trauma, such as severe burns or broken bones.
• thyroid disorders.
• adrenal gland disorders.

How do you fix electrolyte imbalance?

Treatment of An Electrolyte Imbalance: Intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement. A Minor electrolyte imbalance may be corrected by diet changes. For example; eating a diet rich in potassium if you have low potassium levels, or restricting your water intake if you have a low blood sodium level.

What happens when your body is low on electrolytes?

When your body becomes low on electrolytes, it can impair your body’s functions, such as blood clotting, muscle contractions, acid balance, and fluid regulation. Your heart is a muscle, so that means electrolytes help regulate your heartbeat.

How do elderly increase sodium levels?

How to Increase Sodium Levels in Elderly People

1. Adjust or change medications.
2. Cut back on water and fluid consumption.
3. Seek treatment for underlying conditions or diseases.
4. Eat foods that are high in sodium.
5. Increase dietary protein to aid in water excretion.
6. Infusing an intravenous sodium solution.

Why are older adults more at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances?

Older adults are susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities, with causes ranging from physical disability restricting access to fluid intake to iatrogenic causes including polypharmacy and unmonitored diuretic usage. Renal senescence, as well as physical and mental decline, increase this susceptibility.

What are symptoms of not enough electrolytes?

Symptoms of electrolyte disorders

• irregular heartbeat.
• fast heart rate.
• fatigue.
• lethargy.
• convulsions or seizures.
• nausea.
• vomiting.
• diarrhea or constipation.

Why would my electrolytes be low?

An electrolyte imbalance can be caused by: Losing fluids as a result of persistent vomiting or diarrhea, sweating or fever. Not drinking or eating enough. Chronic respiratory problems, such as emphysema.

What is the most common electrolyte disorder?

Hyponatremia is the most common form of electrolyte disorder in the emergency room. The symptoms are unspecific and include nausea, dizziness and often falls.

How do elderly maintain fluid and electrolyte balance?

For the elderly patient who has undergone uncomplicated surgery, early resumption of oral intake is the best approach to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. During the immediate postoperative period, ongoing fluid losses from all sites, including insensible losses, should be replaced meticulously.

Can drinking too much water cause electrolyte imbalance?

Drinking too much water can cause side effects that range from mildly irritating to life-threatening — and overhydration can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium help regulate everything from your kidneys to your heart function.

How can I restore my electrolytes naturally?

5 Foods to Replenish Electrolytes

1. Dairy. Milk and yogurt are excellent sources of the electrolyte calcium.
2. Bananas. Bananas are known to be the king of all potassium containing fruits and veggies.
3. Coconut Water. For a quick energy and electrolyte boost during or after a workout, try coconut water.
4. Watermelon.
5. Avocado.

What drink is high in electrolytes?

8 Healthy Drinks Rich in Electrolytes

• Coconut water. Coconut water, or coconut juice, is the clear liquid found inside of a coconut.
• Milk.
• Watermelon water (and other fruit juices)
• Smoothies.
• Electrolyte-infused waters.
• Electrolyte tablets.
• Sports drinks.
• Pedialyte.

What are signs of low potassium?

What are the symptoms of low potassium levels?

• Muscle twitches.
• Muscle cramps or weakness.
• Muscles that will not move (paralysis)
• Abnormal heart rhythms.
• Kidney problems.

How do you test for electrolyte imbalance?

The Anion Gap Blood Test is a blood test that analyses the level of acid in the blood. This can indicate an electrolyte imbalance, as one of the functions of electrolytes is balancing the pH of the blood. Carbon Dioxide Blood Tests are used to measure CO2 levels in the blood.