Fluid and Electrolyte Disorders

Pediatric patients with compromised kidney function are at substantial risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which can be quite serious and demand immediate medical attention. Electrolyte disorders can include having too much or too little of the following: calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium or sodium. Depending on the type of electrolyte disorder, symptoms may include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, discolored urine, diarrhea and/or constipation, nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, confusion, headaches and irritability. Having kidney disease makes a patient vulnerable to multiple electrolyte disorders because the kidneys are unable to filter minerals adequately. Depending on the type of imbalance that is present, potential treatments may include IV fluids, oral medications, electrolyte supplements and hemodialysis.