Electrolytes
These are your potassium, sodium, chloride, and CO2 levels.
Potassium is controlled very carefully by the kidneys. It is important for the proper functioning of the nerves and muscles, particularly the heart. Any value outside the expected range, high or low, requires medical evaluation. This is especially important if you are taking a diuretic (water pill) or heart pill (Digitalis, Lanoxin, etc.).
Sodium is also regulated by the kidneys and adrenal glands. There are numerous causes of high and low sodium levels, but the most common causes of low sodium are diuretic usage, diabetes drugs like chlorpropamide, and excessive water intake in patients with heart or liver disease.
CO2 reflects the acid status of your blood. Low CO2 levels can be due to either increased acidity from uncontrolled diabetes, kidney disease, metabolic disorders, or chronic hyperventilation.
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