Electrolyte Disorders Specialist
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Kidney Health Specialists
Emilian Cristea, MD
Board Certified in both Nephrology and Internal Medicine located in Hollywood, FL
Maintaining a balance among nutrients like calcium, potassium, and sodium in your body helps your organs function at their best. An electrolyte disorder throws off this balance and can be harmful to your health in the long term without treatment. At Kidney Health Specialists in Hollywood, Florida, board-certified nephrologist Emilian Cristea, MD, treats electrolyte disorders related to chronic kidney disease, fluid loss, and other causes. To schedule an evaluation and treatment consultation, call Kidney Health Specialists or book online today.
Electrolyte Disorders Q&A
What are electrolyte disorders?
Electrolyte disorders occur when you either have too many or too few electrolytes in your body. Electrolytes are certain micronutrients that occur naturally in your body and control or support many of your body’s functions. A few examples are:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Phosphate
While these substances naturally occur in your body, you also get them through the foods, drinks, and supplements you consume.
For optimal body function, electrolytes must be in perfect balance. Some electrolyte disorders or imbalances can have severe effects on your body and require clinical treatment. At Kidney Health Specialists, Dr. Cristea can find the underlying cause of your electrolyte imbalance and direct you to a suitable course of treatment.
What are some common symptoms of electrolyte disorders?
Many mild electrolyte disorders don’t cause symptoms at all. More severe electrolyte disorders, often caused by medications, chronic kidney disease, or a significant loss of body fluids, can cause a wide variety of symptoms. Possible symptoms include:
- Fast or irregular heart rate
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Muscle cramps
- Muscle weakness
- Moodiness
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Numbness or tingling
Symptoms like these may be ambiguous, but you shouldn’t ignore them if they persist. An untreated electrolyte disorder can worsen and become life-threatening.
How are electrolyte disorders treated?
After a physical exam and an in-depth review of your medical history, Dr. Cristea can diagnose your electrolyte disorder and determine how to treat it. Your treatment depends on the type of electrolyte disorder, as well as the underlying cause. Dr. Cristea might recommend:
Intravenous (IV) therapy
IV therapy is a simple way to deliver electrolytes directly into your bloodstream so you don’t lose them in your digestive tract. Dr. Cristea determines which electrolytes you’ll need in your IV bag to restore balance.
Oral medications and supplements
Oral medications and supplements can also replace depleted electrolytes. Dr. Cristea can prescribe them and tell you how to take them for the best outcome.
Hemodialysis
If your electrolyte disorder comes from chronic kidney disease, you may need hemodialysis as part of your treatment. Dialysis involves an artificial kidney called a dialyzer that filters waste products from your blood.
Electrolyte disorders might not seem like a big deal at first, but finding their causes and treating them is essential to your health. If you experience electrolyte disorder symptoms, call Kidney Health Specialists or request an appointment online today.
