Electrolytes and Electrolyte Imbalances Electrolytes are
minerals found naturally in the body, such as potassium,
calcium, sodium, and magnesium. Electrolytes are needed to keep
the body's balance of fluids at the proper level and to maintain
normal functions, such as heart rhythm, muscle contraction, and
brain function. If the body's electrolytes are not in proper
balance, a person may have seizures, an irregular heartbeat,
muscle weakness, and other problems. Electrolyte imbalances can
be caused by a variety of health conditions, such as chronic
heart or kidney disease, endocrine diseases (such as problems
with the adrenal, pituitary, thyroid, or parathyroid glands),
eating disorders, or bone disorders. Any condition that causes
the body to lose too much water (such as diarrhea, vomiting,
fever, or taking medicines called diuretics) can also lead to an
electrolyte imbalance. eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from
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