The Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl) Test measures the levels of Sodium, Potassium, and Chloride in the body. These electrolytes help maintain fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve function, muscle movement, and normal heart rhythm. The test helps identify electrolyte imbalances caused by dehydration, kidney problems, hormonal disorders, or other health conditions.
1.Sodium (Na)
Helps regulate fluid levels and blood pressure, and supports proper nerve and muscle function.
2.Potassium (K)
Maintains healthy heart rhythm, muscle contractions and nerve signals.
3.Chloride (Cl)
Helps maintain fluid balance, blood volume and the body's acid-base (pH) balance.
Also known as: Serum Electrolytes, Sodium Potassium Chloride Test
An electrolyte test is a blood test that measures the levels of important minerals that carry an electrical charge when dissolved in body fluids. Electrolytes are essential for maintaining the body's fluid balance and supporting several vital functions.
The test measures three main electrolytes:
An imbalance in electrolyte levels can occur due to dehydration, excessive fluid loss, kidney problems, certain medications, or other medical conditions.
Doctors may recommend an Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl) Test to:
The test may be advised if you experience symptoms such as:
It may also be useful for people with dehydration, frequent vomiting or diarrhea, excessive sweating, kidney problems, or those taking medicines that affect electrolyte levels.
Usually, no special preparation is required for an Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl) Test. You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Before the test:
| Parameter | Normal range |
|---|---|
| Sodium (Na) | 135–145 mmol/L |
| Potassium (K) | 3.5–5.1 mmol/L |
| Chloride (Cl) | 98–107 mmol/L |
Reference ranges can differ between labs. Your report shows the range used by the lab.
An Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl) Test is a blood test that measures sodium, potassium, and chloride levels to check the body's electrolyte balance.
The test measures: - Sodium (Na) - Potassium (K) - Chloride (Cl)
No, fasting is generally not required for this test. However, follow your doctor's instructions if other tests are performed along with it.
Electrolytes help maintain hydration, nerve communication, muscle function, blood pressure, and normal heart rhythm.
| Test name | Electrolytes (Na/K/Cl) Test |
|---|---|
| Location | Secunderabad |
| Sample type | Blood |
| Number of parameters | 3 |
| Home sample collection | Available |
| Fasting | Not required |
| Report time | Within 24 hours |
| Recommended age | 5–99 years |
| Suitable for | Male & Female |
Results and interpretation
The test report shows the levels of sodium, potassium, and chloride in your blood. Results are compared with the normal reference range provided by the laboratory.
Electrolyte levels may be higher or lower than the normal range due to factors such as age, health condition, hydration status, medications, or underlying medical conditions.
An abnormal electrolyte result does not always indicate a serious health problem. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or evaluations based on your symptoms and overall health condition.
Electrolyte imbalance may occur due to dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney problems, certain medications, or hormonal conditions.
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm and analyzed in a laboratory to measure electrolyte levels.
Results are usually available within 24 hours, depending on the laboratory processing time.
