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Last Updated on 24th January 2022

What is an electrolyte test used for?What is included in the serum electrolyte test?Procedure for serum electrolyte test How to prepare for an electrolytes test?What types of conditions can electrolytes test detect?How much does a serum test cost?How long does it take to get the results for the electrolytes test?What do abnormal electrolytes test results indicate?Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

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What is an electrolyte test used for?

An electrolyte panel is often a part of routine blood screening. The electrolyte test is fundamentally used to check for any imbalance in the electrolyte content in the body. When a proper electrolyte level is not maintained, it can impair the basic functions of the human body like blood pressure, fluid balance, muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission. Thus it is important to check for any alteration in the normal electrolyte level in the body.
This test may be done,

As a part of your routine health checkup.
To detect abnormal levels of electrolytes in the blood.
To detect an acid-base imbalance in the body.
To detect any related kidney disease.
To monitor treatment response in patients who are suffering from hypertension or kidney diseases.
To monitor patients who are undergoing treatment like dialysis.

What is included in the serum electrolyte test?

Men and women of all age groups can get this test done. This test measures the levels of sodium, potassium and chloride inside your blood.

Sodium (Na) – helps in maintaining normal fluid balance in the body.
Potassium (K)- helps to maintain muscle contraction in the body.
Chloride (Cl)- helps in maintaining the pH balance of the body.

Procedure for serum electrolyte test

The serum electrolyte test follows the following procedure-

The lab technician will arrive at your doorstep at the chosen time slot and will collect your blood sample.
The blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm, using a small needle.
Once the needle is inserted, a little amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial.
The blood sample is then sent to accredited labs of your choice (made during the booking) for further processing.
The blood sample is then assessed for serum electrolyte levels.

Book an electrolytes test to check your serum electrolyte level!

How to prepare for an electrolytes test?

This test does not require any special preparation.

Things to consider after serum electrolytes test is complete

Once the test is complete it is essential for the individual to consult a doctor and get a clear analysis of the test results. In case there are any imbalances in your electrolyte levels your doctor will be able to guide you with a proper treatment plan. It is your responsibility to collect your test reports, take it to your doctor and follow the instructions or medications as prescribed.

What types of conditions can electrolytes test detect?

The results of this test will include measurements for each electrolyte. An imbalance in electrolyte levels can be caused by various conditions like,

Dehydration
Kidney disease
Heart disease
Diabetes
Acidosis is a condition in which you have too much acid in your blood. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
Alkalosis is a condition in which you have too many bases in your blood. It can cause irritability, muscle twitching, and tingling in the fingers and toes. The results will depend on which electrolyte is affected and whether levels are too low or too high.

How much does a serum test cost?

Serum electrolyte tests can range from Rs 400 to Rs 850.

*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the results for the electrolytes test?

You can expect to get the results for the serum electrolyte test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in certain cases, depending on the location, medical advice and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.

What do abnormal electrolytes test results indicate?

Abnormal levels of these electrolytes may indicate-

Dehydration
Kidney dysfunction
Heart disease
Diabetes

Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.

Is the serum electrolyte test a definitive test?

Yes, it is a definitive test, though minor variations in the level of electrolytes are reversible and the imbalance can be corrected. It is advisable to visit your consultant to get a clear analysis of the results and proceed with any intervention suggested by the consultant doctor.

How to read the electrolytes test report?

Interpretation of the level of electrolytes is based on assessing the normal level of these electrolytes in the body.

Normal Sodium level- 136-146mEq/L

Hyponatraemia is considered to be serum sodium below 134 mEq/L. Odium levels are influenced by the fluid status of our body. A common cause of hyponatremia is water retention due to cardiac or renal or hepatic failure, hypothyroidism etc.

Other causes of hyponatremia include some medicines, psychogenic polydipsia (excessive water intake), syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), and chronic or severe diarrhoea and vomiting.

Hypernatraemia is defined as serum sodium greater than 146 mEq/L. Causes of hypernatraemia are simply anything that leads to excessive water loss or salt gain. For example, water depletion or dehydration may be caused by diarrhoea and vomiting or elevated sugar or glucose levels. Excessive ingestion of sodium is rare, but the administration of infusions containing sodium such as sodium chloride or sodium bicarbonate may lead to hypernatraemia.

The normal level of serum potassium is 3.5-4.5 mEq/L.

Hypokalaemia is defined as serum potassium less than 3.5 mmol/L. Low serum potassium may be caused by decreased oral intake, increased renal or gastrointestinal loss of potassium, or a shift of potassium within the body’s fluid compartments (from outside the cell where it should be, to inside the cell).Common clinical features of hypokalemia range from muscle weakness and ileus (lack of peristalsis) to serious cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardias.

Hyperkalaemia, serum potassium greater than 5.0 mmol/L, may be caused by excessive intake, tissue damage from burn injury or trauma, medicines such as potassium-sparing diuretics, some blood pressure medications etc.

The normal level of serum chloride is as follows-

Adults: 98–106 mEq/L
Children: 90–110 mEq/L
Newborn babies: 96–106 mEq/L
Premature babies: 95–110 mEq/L

Hypochloremia is defined as serum chloride levels below 96–101 mEq/L, while hyperchloremia normally is defined as serum chloride levels higher than 106–111 mEq/L.

As we usually get chloride in salt it’s rare to have low chloride levels. Hypochloremia is caused by diarrhoea, vomiting, kidney problems, SIADH, and some medications like diuretics. Hyperchloremia or high chloride levels are caused by a fluid loss in the body, kidney problems, diabetic coma and some medications like diuretics or corticosteroids.

The test results may indicate any of the above but it is the responsibility of the individual to report to the doctor with the test results get a clear analysis of the test report and avail the necessary treatment.

Book an electrolytes test to check your sodium, potassium and chloride level!

Electrolytes test at home – how does it work?

The electrolytes test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.

Are there any risks involved with electrolytes tests?

There are no relevant risks from this test. It is conducted as a routine blood test and avoids any complications.

What can affect the results of electrolytes tests?

Results of the electrolyte test may change based on the time of blood sample collection. Ingesting large amounts of alcohol the day before can lead to dehydration and may not give an accurate result for the electrolyte test.

Book an electrolyte test to check your electrolytes level!

Why book an electrolyte test?

To check the imbalances in the levels of electrolytes in the body.
It is also done as a routine test.
To understand if there are any issues with the water and pH balance in the body.
It is also a part of general checkups that are related to kidney function.

For further assistance

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Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

Is the lab technician coming for electrolytes test sample collection vaccinated?

Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. They also ensure safety throughout by wearing a mask, gloves, and frequently sanitising themselves during the sample collection.

Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result along with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my electrolytes test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on electrolytes tests?

Usually, you can avail up to a 50% discount on lab tests through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

What are the symptoms of hyponatremia and hypernatremia?

Hyponatraemia can cause symptoms like confusion, agitation, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness, spasms and cramps. On the other hand, the common symptoms of hypernatraemia are fever, irritability, drowsiness, irritability, lethargy and confusion.

What are the symptoms of low potassium levels in the blood?

Weakness and Fatigue
Muscle cramps and spasms. Muscle cramps are sudden, uncontrolled contractions of the muscles
Digestive Problems
Heart Palpitations
Muscle Aches and Stiffness
Tingling and Numbness
Breathing Difficulties
Mood Changes