Liquimax Potassium(K) SLR(Optimized)

This test is performed when symptoms of a sodium imbalance are present, or when disorders associated with abnormal sodium levels develop. Sodium (Na+) is the major positive ion in the fluids outside of cells. The concentration of sodium inside cells is only about 5 mEq/L compared with 140 mEq/L outside. The sodium content of the blood is a result of a balance between the amount in the food and beverages you consume, and the amount your kidneys excrete. (In addition, a small percent is lost through the stool and sweat.) Many factors affect sodium levels, including the steroid hormone aldosterone, which decreases loss of sodium in the urine. ANP (Atrial Natriuretic Protein) is a hormone secreted from the heart that increases sodium loss from the body. Despite the integral relationship between sodium and water, the body regulates them independent of each other if necessary. Potassium (K+) is the major positive ion within cells and is particularly important for maintaining the electric charge on the cell membrane. This charge allows nerves and muscles to communicate and is necessary for transporting nutrients into cells and waste products out of the cell. The concentration of potassium inside cells is about 30 times that in the blood and other fluids outside of cells. Potassium levels are mainly controlled by the steroid hormone aldosterone. Aldosterone is secreted from the adrenal gland when levels of potassium increase. Aldosterone, in turn, causes the body to rid itself of excess potassium. Metabolic acidosis (for example, caused by uncontrolled diabetes) or alkalosis (for example, caused by excess vomiting) can affect blood potassium. In normal people, taking potassium supplements or potassium-containing drugs is of no consequences, because the kidneys efficiently dispose of excess potassium