Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Electrolyte Imbalance - Salt Imbalance
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment for sodium imbalance will depend on the underlying cause.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Side effects depend on the treatments used, but may include allergic reactions to the medicine and stomach upset.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Hyponatremia that is the result of vomiting and diarrhea caused by the flu may be treated and need no further treatment. On the other hand, a person who has diabetes will need lifelong treatment once the condition is under control. A person with kidney disease may need follow-up treatment and close monitoring of blood levels of sodium and many other electrolytes.
How is the condition monitored?
Carefully monitoring of blood levels can help keep a balance between too little and too much sodium in the blood. If the salt imbalance is due to a short-term condition, such as vomiting, no further monitoring may be necessary. If a person is on diuretics or has other long-term conditions, periodic blood tests are needed to check the blood levels of various electrolytes. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.