Electrolyte test: Understand why you might need an electrolyte

Understand why you might need an electrolyte blood test, what the normal ranges are, and what your test results mean. Learn about common electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride. An electrolyte test or electrolyte panel is a blood test that helps to measure whether there is a deficit or imbalance of electrolytes in your body. An electrolyte test can also be done through a urine test. An electrolyte test is a simple blood test that measures the levels of different electrolytes in your body. It can help identify if you’re too low or too high in any particular mineral. Electrolyte testing may be carried out as part of routine blood tests. The blood test for the electrolytic panel doesn’t require any fasting or dietary changes. However, it is best to consult your doctor and follow any specific instructions issued by him/her. Certain medications affect the sodium, potassium and chloride levels in the blood, hence you may be required to stop those medications for a while before the test. You should preferably wear light and comfortable clothing to the ...