Electrolytes Test: Type, Price, Purpose and Normal levels.

Electrolytes are substances that have a net positive and negative charge. There are different cations and anions like Na+ or Cl-.They help keep the balance in the bodily fluids that regulate chemical reactions. Therefore, they can help diagnose many healthcare conditions. However, there are different types of Electrolytes tests, including urine or blood tests. In this blog, we will learn about different kinds of electrolytes, their price range, and the purpose of these tests. Read Also: 

What is an electrolytic test?

An electrolytic test is a serum-based test in which blood is extracted from the body, and the serum is removed from the blood containing no cells. Sodium, potassium, and other levels of different nutrients are measured as a part of basic metabolic panels. The electrolytic tester helps assess the nature of the body and determine if the test has given an alkaline or basic result. Moreover, this test helps determine the amount of water in the body. Potassium and sodium balances are essential for the rhythmic functions of the body and for regulating the amount of water in the body, respectively.

What are the different Types of electrolytic tests?

Electrolytic tests have many names like electrolyte panels or electrolytic urine tests, and electrolytic sample tests, this test can help analyze the electrolytes like sodium, potassium, chlorides, and bicarbonates. There are many different types of electrolytic tests-

Hormonal blood tests -

These tests help in checking the levels of hormones in the body. However, they contain the proper working of the kidneys and can result in certain types of electrolytic problems.

Carbon dioxide blood test - 

This test will help you measure carbon dioxide levels in your blood and can also indicate if the blood is too acidic or alkaline.

Chloride blood test - 

This test helps analyze a blood sample for the level of chlorides in your urine. A similar chloride blood test will help check the chloride levels in the blood. 

Sodium blood test - 

This test will help measure the sodium level in your blood. Similarly, a sodium urine test will assist in analyzing the sodium levels in the urine.

Urine test - 

This test is used to find out about the disorders of the kidney and can determine if the kidney is functioning well or requires dialysis. It mainly checks the concentration of particles in the urine and electrolyte levels. Also, Read Osmotic Fragility Test: Overview, Purpose, and Results.

How much does it cost for an Electrolytes test?

The price range of electrolytic tests starts from INR 500 to 1,500. However, this range can differ from place to place, with metro cities charging a higher amount than urban or semi-urban areas. Along with this, a blood test is in a higher range than a urine test, and other factors, like the detection of a specific electrolyte, can also affect the price range. 

When is an electrolytes test required?

1. The primary purpose of an electrolytic test is to check the imbalance of electrolytes in the body. This helps identify whether the cation and anions are in the normal range. If they are not, it can indicate potent health issues or failure of different organs. 
2. Along with that helps in suspecting the Acid-base or the body's pH balance. 
3. This test can help identify a kidney disorder or a heart problem apart from others. 
4. Moreover, electrolytic tests also help monitor tests for different medical ailments like the one mentioned.
5. Electrolytic levels are checked continuously in the case of hospitalized patients. 
6. They are also checked for people on medications, including diuretics or inhibitors.

What is the Electrolytes test normal range?

The Electrolytes test normal ranges are the followings:

• Sodium levels -

An Electrolytes test normal range for adults is 136 to 145 mEq/L. The field is of similar levels for children and older people.

• Potassium levels -

A normal range for adults is 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. The field is of similar levels for children and older people.

• Chloride levels -

A normal range for adults is 98 to 106 mEq/L. The field is of similar levels for children and older people.

• Bicarbonate levels -

A normal range for adults is 23 to 28 mEq/L. The field is for children 20 to 28 mEq/LYou should consult your doctor if your range exceeds the electrolytes mentioned here. Also, Read MCHC Blood Test Low - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.

Summa ry -

Electrolytic tests are for checking the typical ranges of electrolytes in the blood. It is essential to keep the balance of electrolytes in the normal range as it can affect the body fluids and the rates at which certain organs work, like the kidney and heart. Many different electrolytes tests are prescribed as per the needs of the patient and can range from 500 to 1500 rupees depending on the location where you live in India. So it is essential to keep an eye on your test results and check with your doctor if there is a need for any preventive measures or lifestyle changes.